MANILA – The Quezon City government has established a dedicated task force to safeguard women and children from the harmful effects of mercury found in skin-lightening products, earning praise from environmental group EcoWaste Coalition.

Mayor Joy Belmonte’s Executive Order No. 2, series of 2025, aims to strengthen the citywide ban on mercury-containing cosmetics by creating a concrete enforcement mechanism. The task force, led by the Quezon City Health Department (QCHD), will be chaired by the City Health Officer, with the head of the Special Services Division serving as vice-chairperson. The Food-Drug Regulation Section will act as the secretariat.

“We commend Mayor Joy Belmonte and the QCHD for their earnest efforts to strengthen the enforcement of the landmark ordinance banning the manufacture, distribution and sale of mercury-added cosmetics in the city,” said Manny Calonzo, a campaigner for EcoWaste Coalition. “We consider the issuance of the EO as an early Women’s Day gift for women, particularly pregnant women and babies in their wombs, who are very vulnerable to mercury toxicity.”

The World Health Organization highlights the severe health risks associated with mercury in skin-lightening products, including skin damage, weakened immune systems, and neurological disorders. The new task force is expected to enhance the city's efforts to protect its residents from these dangers.