LOCAL government units (LGUs) in Cavite have been alerted over the illegal sale of mercury-containing skin lightening products that pose serious health and environmental risks.
In a statement released on March 15, the EcoWaste Coalition and the Cavite Green Coalition said their joint monitoring with the Diocese of Imus Ministry on Ecology found dozens of stores in Cavite selling cosmetics flagged by the Food and Drug Administration.
The investigation, conducted from February 27 to March 6, covered 61 beauty product stores and kiosks across 20 of the province’s 23 local government units. The groups discovered several FDA-flagged whitening products, including brands such as Goree and 88 Total White.
Testing using an X-ray fluorescence analyzer detected extremely high mercury levels in some products, with concentrations reaching more than 34,000 parts per million—far above allowable safety standards.
Mercury exposure from skin-lightening products can cause skin damage, kidney problems, and nervous system disorders. The toxin can also harm unborn babies and infants when exposed during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
The groups have notified Cavite mayors, the provincial government, and the FDA, urging stronger enforcement against the illegal trade of banned cosmetics and promoting campaigns that encourage appreciation of natural skin tones.|
