EcoWaste warns against giving toy guns as presents

An environmental group warned the public yesterday against buying “toxic” toys that can expose children “to chemical and physical hazards, or promote hostility and violence.”

The Ecological Waste Coalition (EcoWaste) asked the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to conduct a nationwide inspection of retail outlets to ensure that only toys that pass quality and safety standards are sold in malls and other shopping centers.

EcoWaste backed the position of Senate President Manuel Villar Jr. and the Episcopal Commission on Youth of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines against toy guns.

“Toy guns work against the Christmas message of harmony and peace,” said Elsie Brandes-de Veyra of the EcoWaste Coalition.

“In lieu of bad toys that mimic violence in our troubled society, why not share books that teach and celebrate positive values such as respect, love and solidarity, including caring for the environment.

“Books, in English or Filipino, are our country’s best tool to halt the decline in the reading habits among Filipino children. Gift-givers can pick the best ones that will fit the age, reading abilities and interest level of the intended recipients.”

De Veyra said the government must assure Filipino consumers that tainted toys recalled from store shelves in the US and elsewhere would not find their way to the local market and cause serious harm to children.

“It will be necessary for the DTI to publicize the list of recalled toys, complete with photos, so the public will know. Consumers also need to be extra vigilant against crooked vendors selling at very attractive prices branded as well as non-branded toys that do not carry the required quality and safety marks.

“Buyers need to pay close attention to correct and adequate product information to be protected against toys that are hazardous to health or life.”

EcoWaste reminded the public that exposure to lead, a neurotoxin found in the paint coatings of some toys, can poison vital organs and lead to lower IQ, reading and learning disabilities, speech and language problems and mental retardation among children.