Eco group backs DOH warning vs. mercury use in folk healing practices

An environmental group has thrown its support behind the Department of Health (DOH) for issuing a public advisory cautioning against the use of mercury in traditional healing practices believed to counteract 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.

Following the release of the advisory, the group encouraged those involved in faith-based or cultural healing to heed the government’s warning and abandon the use of mercury due to its severe toxicity.

Referring to findings by the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP), EcoWaste warned that mercury used for ritualistic purposes remains a public health concern, especially in communities lacking knowledge about its dangers. 

Mishandling of the chemical can also contaminate the environment and expose others to its harmful effects.

While the Minamata Convention on Mercury does not directly address the religious or cultural use of the substance, the Philippines enforces a prohibition on such practices under the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Administrative Order 2019-20, which includes mercury in the national Chemical Control Order.

The coalition revealed that since September 2023, authorities have been receiving reports of mercury being openly sold in areas near Quiapo Church in Manila. 

The toxic liquid, typically priced at P300 per small bottle, is allegedly being used in various ritual applications such as topical application and subcutaneous implantation.

EcoWaste also urged regulators to clamp down on the online sale of mercury-containing items, including cosmetics, medical tools, and other banned goods, in light of stricter rules under the recently implemented Internet Transactions Act.