BY: ANGELICA ARQUERO
At first glance, this may seem like just ordinary trash in a garbage bag.
But upon closer inspection, used syringes are actually mixed in with the trash.
This waste was discovered by a garbage collector in June 2024 after he was pricked in the hand.
The said garbage was immediately reported to Barangay Kabayanihan in Baguio City.
After conducting an investigation, the barangay found out that the waste came from a local clinic.
This incident prompted the barangay to strictly enforce the use of transparent garbage bags.
This will allow easy identification of whether waste is properly segregated.
This policy is part of Barangay Ordinance No. 004, Series of 2024.
First-time violators will be required to perform community service, while second and third offenses will result in fines.
The City General Services Office is no stranger to these kinds of incidents.
Under Joint DENR-DOH Administrative Order No. 02, s. 2005, medical waste must be collected only by Treatment, Storage, and Disposal (TSD) facilities.
It states that TSD facilities must regularly collect medical waste, which should be properly labeled and placed in separate containers.
This administrative order is based on various laws aimed at protecting the environment and setting guidelines that healthcare facilities must follow.
Violators may face multiple complaints, along with corresponding fines and imprisonment.
