This letter features reporting from "There’s Almost No Research on the Health Impact of Plastic Chemicals in the Global South" by Aryn Baker

To The Honorable Secretary of Environment and Natural Resources of the Philippines Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga,

May you be in good health and have a moment of peace as you read this letter.

I am writing to you as a concerned citizen of the Philippines and a young member of our community. I wish to draw your attention to the alarming health risks posed by plastic pollution, both in the Philippines and globally.

As Secretary of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, your leadership has been significant in advancing policies that address environmental challenges, including plastic waste management and climate change adaptation. Your efforts in spearheading initiatives aimed at protecting marine biodiversity and reducing plastic pollution have made quite a significant difference in reducing the effects of environmental degradation in our country. With that, I am confident that your continued leadership can bring out the urgent action needed to address the health and environmental risks of plastic pollution.

This dire need for action is highlighted in an informative and distressing article written by Aryn Baker. “There’s Almost No Research on the Health Impact of Plastic Chemicals in the Global South” mentions that “plastic production is on track to triple by 2060,” and yet we are only beginning to uncover the health risks related to the chemicals used in plastics, many of which are hazardous for human health. Many of these said chemicals are linked to serious health concerns, including endocrine disruptions and metabolic issues, but remain unregulated and under-researched.

Closer to the place we call our home, the situation is equally startling. According to a 2023 article by journalist Cong Corrales, a certain study disclosed that over 350,000 tons of plastic waste from the Philippines make their way into the ocean each year. This constitutes as an entire “36% of the world’s total plastic waste,” thus ranking us “first as the country with the highest plastic waste emissions into the ocean per person each year, at 3.30 kg.”

These aren’t just numbers—they directly affect the people of our country. The plastic waste polluting our oceans endangers our fisheries, which many communities rely on for their livelihoods. Many fishermen are now reporting that their catches are smaller and often contaminated with plastic debris, making it more difficult to feed their families. Additionally, it poisons our food supply, with toxic chemicals leaching into our seafood. In areas like Cebu and Davao, local families are already feeling the consequences, as their fish stocks lessen and water quality continues to worsen. For many of us Filipinos, this is no longer a distant threat, but rather a daily reality. 

Although I do acknowledge previous efforts, such as the Extended Producer Responsibility Act of 2022 and the National Plan of Action for the Prevention, Reduction, and Management of Marine Litter, there are still certain improvements that could be made. These include things like creating clearer guidelines for compliance, establishing stricter monitoring systems, and collaborating with recycling facilities.

To further address this issue, I respectfully urge you to prioritize regulating better plastic production and the chemicals used in its manufacturing. I ask you to please lead the government in enforcing stricter controls over chemicals used in plastics, particularly those known to be dangerous to human health. I believe this could be done through banning or limiting the use of harmful chemicals like BPA and phthalates in plastic products commonly used in the Philippines. In addition, I advocate for increased investment in research to ensure a better understanding of the unique risks against our citizens and communities. You should also invest in sustainable alternatives to single-use plastics, such as biodegradable materials and reusable products. Finally, I hope to see public awareness campaigns that aim to educate people about the dangers and importance of this issue.

As a 13-year-old child here in the Philippines, I feel a deep sense of anxiety every time I look around me. It’s quite hard not to notice the pollution that suffocates our streets, the garbage that chokes our rivers and oceans, and the growing uncertainty about the future. Please remember that it’s not just adults who are worried—it’s us, the young people, who are facing the reality of a crumbling world under our collective neglect. I could not help but think about the succeeding generations. What kind of future will they live in? What will our environment look like in 10, 20, or 30 years if things continue as they are? Will they have clean air to breathe, fresh water to drink, or fish in their seas? The thought of it aches my heart. I don’t want to be part of a generation that watches the world die and does nothing about it. I want to be part of a generation that takes action—one that stands up and fights for the planet and the future of those who will come after us.

The fear of growing up in a world where we can no longer fix what has been broken is overwhelming. We cannot wait any longer. Please, let my letter be a call to action. I beg you to lead us toward a future where we can breathe easier, live healthier, and leave a world worth living in for the generations to come.

Thank you for hearing me. I appreciate the time you have taken to read this letter. I am very eager to work with you and await the results of implementing these new ideas and solutions.

With hope for a future that is still within our grasp,
Enzo Lustre


Enzo Lustre is a 13-year-old student at Philippine Science High School – Main Campus, where he is an active member of the Model United Nations club and the school paper. Deeply passionate about amplifying the voice of youth on important global issues, Enzo uses his writing and advocacy to highlight environmental challenges, particularly plastic pollution, and the need for urgent action. He believes that young people have a powerful role to play in shaping the future, especially in areas of policy and social change. 

Beyond his academic and advocacy work, Enzo is also involved in extracurricular activities that allow him to explore other interests, such as volleyball, and participate in organizations focused on addressing various social and environmental concerns. Through all his efforts, he strives to make a meaningful impact, not only on environmental issues but on the broader challenges facing his generation.

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