Article by:
Ma. Teresa Montemayor
MANILA – An environmental watchdog on Tuesday expressed support for the Department of Health’s (DOH) public health advisory warning against the use of toxic mercury in traditional practices to counter witchcraft.
In a statement, the EcoWaste Coalition said the advisory came after their appeal for immediate action from the DOH, as misleading claims circulate on e-commerce platforms and social media that promote mercury as a “pamatay-bisa” or antidote to “barang” (sorcery) and “kulam" (witchcraft).
The DOH said exposure to mercury leads to serious health risks, including damage to the brain, nerves, kidneys, and other vital organs.
In line with this, the group urged the public – particularly those involved in cultural or spiritual healing practices – to heed the agency’s warning.
It cited the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP), which had warned that mercury used for cultural reasons poses a public health risk due to its toxicity and the lack of awareness among users.
Improper storage and use can also lead to environmental contamination and secondary exposure.
While the Minamata Convention on Mercury does not regulate religious or traditional uses, Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Administrative Order 2019-20 prohibits such uses under the country’s Chemical Control Order.
Reports of its sale near Quiapo Church, Manila have been brought to the attention of the DENR since September 2023.
The silvery liquid metal is sold in small bottles for PHP300 each. Besides being kept in small containers to neutralize or ward off hexes, it is rubbed onto the skin or planted subcutaneously.
The EcoWaste Coalition also urged authorities to crack down on the illegal online sale of mercury-containing products, including cosmetics, medical devices, and other banned substances, with the Internet Transactions Act now in full effect. (PNA)
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