Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 9) —The group BAN Toxics is urging the government to review the 10-year-old Toy and Game Safety Labeling Law, saying more harmful toys may be sold this holiday season.
“We are dismayed that most of the toys and childcare articles (TCCAs) being sold in the local markets still lack the required labeling requirements under RA 10620. We need to review the said law to ensure product safety of the children,” BAN Toxics campaigner Thony Dizon said in a statement.
According to the toxic watch group, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) should probe and monitor establishments to evaluate if manufacturers and sellers comply with the Act and its Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR).
“Now that the holiday season is near, we must enforce the law and conduct actions against toy manufacturers, importers, distributors, and retailers that violate the existing labeling requirements,” Dizon added.
The RA No. 10620 stated that it ensures the protection of children against potential hazards to their health and safety by labeling toys and games.
Last Sept. 29 on CNN Philippines’ Newsroom Ngayon, Dizon also urged the government to strengthen the precautionary information of toxic chemicals that are available in local markets.
“In terms of the packaging, kailangan talaga may naka-indicate diyan na precaution, napakaimportante niyan, even ‘yung mga ginagamit natin ay halos ganun pang masyado, kumbaga sensitibo. Kung lalagyan mo ‘yan ng label na warning or indication na talagang ito ay para ma-secure lang na hindi ito mapupunta sa kamay ng mga bata ay dapat nating gawin,” he said.
[Translation: In terms of packaging, we really need to indicate the precaution, it’s very important even for the [chemicals] that are not that sensitive. There should be labels to warn the consumer, so that the usage will be secure and will not be given to children.]
