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MANILA, Philippines – The Mayor of Manila, Isko Moreno, has written a letter to the Secretary of the Environment, Roy Cimatu, asking him to clarify whether it is true that crushed dolomite, which is used to simulate white sand in Manila Bay, represents a danger to public health.
In his letter, dated September 9, Moreno referred to statements issued Monday by the Department of Health (DOH) that said dolomite could cause eye and gastrointestinal irritation in people from dolomite particles.
“It was reported that Undersecretary María Rosario Vergeire of the [DOH] stated that the inhalation of crushed dolomite rock, the material used as white sand that fills the coast of Manila Bay, can cause respiratory problems, as it will have an adverse reaction in the respiratory system, ”said Moreno.
“Hence, in compliance with the faithful fulfillment of my duty to promote health and safety […] May we request your clarification on this declaration of use? Vergeire to ensure that the health, comfort and convenience of city dwellers and other neighboring local governments are properly cared for, ”he added.
Last Friday, Moreno expressed his support for the project of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in Manila Bay, thanking the national government for its efforts to beautify the tourist place, popular for its famous sunset.
However, several experts cited studies by American companies saying that dolomite could cause cancer and damage the lungs through prolonged or repeated exposure.
Other research indicated that dolomite, which contains crystalline silica, could be carcinogenic within the human body.
Aside from the health dangers, several government officials said the timing of the project was not met because the country was still recovering from the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
But first, Cimatu refuted the DOH and the opinion of experts on the matter, claiming that the dolomite from Cebu would not pose any danger, as it was not classified as a carcinogen by the Mine Safety and Health Association, the Safety Association. and Occupational Health. , or even the International Agency for Research on Cancer.
“What is dangerous are the fine silica quads in some dolomites in the form of dust that is generated during crushing and screening,” Cimatu said.
Despite the concerns, Moreno assured DENR that the city would still support movements to rehabilitate Manila Bay.
“We trust that you will pay your utmost attention to this matter, as your city government reiterates its full support, as it is very grateful, for the continued rehabilitation of the DENR of Manila Bay, part of Manila,” Moreno said. .
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