Health Secretary Francisco Duque III yesterday warned the public against the consumption of imported galunggong (round scad) from China that are allegedly tainted with formalin. In a press conference, Duque said formalin is used for preservation of cadavers, among others, and should not be used to keep food products “supposedly fresh.” He noted that consuming food laced with formalin could lead to various ailments, including cancer. As little as 30 milliliters of formalin can produce adverse effects. “This is used for preservation of cadavers, of tissues, of certain animals, of certain organs for educational purposes and not for consumption,” Duque added.

Crisostomo, S., Cervantes, D., & Romero, P. (2018, August 23). DOH warns vs formalin-tainted imported galunggong. The Philippine Star, pp.1, 6.