A party-list lawmaker on Tuesday stressed the need to create stricter measures on the proper disposal of medical waste, including face masks and face shields, as part of defeating the coronavirus disease (Covid-19).

DIWA Rep. Michael Edgar Aglipay said the mandatory wearing of face masks and face shields at all times in public places to prevent the spread of Covid-19 has resulted in an incremental increase in medical waste.

Aglipay noted that such medical waste is carelessly disposed of, which may eventually lead to an “environmental disaster”.

“The proper disposal of such medical waste is not only a vital part of defeating Covid-19 but also a means to ensure that future generations have a ‘balanced and healthful ecology in accord with the rhythm and harmony of nature’ as guaranteed by no less than the 1987 Philippine Constitution,” he said.

Aglipay filed House Resolution 1244 urging the Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) to create stricter guidelines on the disposal of face masks and face shields and other waste materials utilized to treat, detect, and prevent the spread of Covid-19.

Aglipay said such guidelines should be publicized so that the public may be duly informed.

The country has logged 359,169 cases with 310,303 recoveries and 6,675 deaths as of Monday. (PNA)