Lead at excessive levels detected in Divisoria school supplies

MANILA, Philippines — An eco-group has made an alarming discovery: lead content in school supplies bought in Manila’s famous “tiangge” shops.

The Ecowaste Coalition, with the assistance of US-Based visiting doctor, Dr. Joe DiGangi, of the International POPs (Persistent Organic Pollutants) Elimination Network, reported that chemical tests yielded lead in raincoats and other school supplies bought at the 168 Mall, Tutuban Mall and adjacent retail stores in Divisoria last July 22.

“Out of the 25 product samples we tested, lead was detected in 15 samples ranging from 96 parts per million (ppm) up to 14,100 ppm,” said Thony Dizon, EcoWaste Coalition project coordinator, in a statement released on Monday.

According to the United States Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008, the lead threshold limit is only 90 ppm.

But lead content far exceeding that limit was detected in Divisoria-bought raincoats, pencil cases, backpacks, shoulder bags, lunch bags and carry bags by the EcoWaste Coalition, using an X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) analyzer.

“The results of our probe should compel manufacturers to step up, remove chemicals of concern from their products and switch to non-toxic ingredients that will not jeopardize the health of children who are most vulnerable to toxins,” said DiGangi.