LGUs urged to stop sale of toy weapons

MANILA, Philippines — Environmental watchdog EcoWaste Coalition has called on local government units (LGUs) to stop the sale of weapon-like toys such as mockup balisong, daggers and swords in the vicinity of schools and in public markets.

“We appeal to mayors, barangay and police authorities to ensure that such toys are not offered for sale to young children. They need not wait for accidents and injuries to happen before taking action,” EcoWaste national coordinator Aileen Lucero said.

EcoWaste issued the statement following recent incidents of violence in schools in Metro Manila.

The group is particularly concerned with the continued sale of balisong or butterfly knives and other toys made of plastic with sharp edges and pointed parts such as daggers, throwing stars, swords and other mockup weapons inspired by the popular manga and anime series.

According to the group’s market investigation, these toys are often sourced from wholesalers in Binondo, Manila and sold by retail stores and ambulant vendors outside public and private elementary schools. These toys are also sold online.

Based on the test buys conducted by EcoWaste in September last year, wholesalers at Divisoria Mall and New Divisoria Center were selling plastic balisong for P150 per pack of 24 knives or P6.25 each, assorted swords for P130 per pack or P5.41 each and Naruto toys for P75 per pack or P3 each.

The group said the toys are being sold without market authorization from the Food and Drug Administration, in violation of Republic Act 9711 or the FDA Act of 2009.

EcoWaste said these toys were not properly labeled, in violation of RA 10620 or the Toy and Game Safety Labeling Act of 2013.