THE DEPARTMENT of Trade and Industry (DTI) has ordered several shops in Recto, Manila to pull out school supplies found to have high levels of mercury. “Pina pull-out ang mga coloring pens and water colors na (that are) generic bec(ause) of elevated mercury content as tested in the gadget of FDA (Food and Drug Administration). So subject to official tests sa (at the) FDA testing center,” DTI Secretary Ramon M. Lopez said in a text message. The stores were among those recently visited by the DTI to monitor compliance to standard retail prices set for school supplies. Should further tests prove the high mercury content, these materials will be pulled out from every store nationwide. DTI expects the results to be released soon with the new school year starting next week. — Janina C. Lim

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