MMDA calls for tighter monitoring of food sold in markets

MMDA Chairman Francis Tolentino during the MMFF 2014 Selection and Announcement of Official Entries at Seda Hotel, Bonifacio Global City (Facebook photo)

MANILA – The Metro Manila Development Authority is calling for a tighter monitoring of food sold in markets to stop the sale of illegal food substances.

Following the milk tea poisoning incident in Sampaloc Manila, MMDA chairman Francis Tolentino urged health officers of local government units (LGUs) to implement strict monitoring procedures.

“This is very important especially this summer because children [spend] most of [their] time outside [the house],” he said.

Tolentino mandated officers from the 17 Metro Manila LGUs to check if food products that were not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are sold to establishments under their jurisdiction.

In a meeting with the officers, Tolentino said that it is crucial for them to establish a dynamic communication to better promote the public health security.

“We need to establish constant and dynamic communication between the MMDA and the city health officers in order to strengthen their role in the development of plans, projects and programs that will have an impact on the environment,” Tolentino said.

The MMDA also stressed the importance of “strengthening public health and [everyone’s] active participation in promoting a healthy living environment in Metro Manila.”