The Municipal Government of Cordova on Saturday said it is investigating the illegal dumping of medical waste in Barangay Alegria.

The discarded waste included used intravenous fluid bottles, tubing, syringes and other disposable medical supplies.

In an initial investigation, Julieta Tampus, head of the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office, said the waste came from an aesthetic clinic and was allegedly abandoned by a hired tricycle driver.

Tampus told the media that the illegal dumping was reported after a hotel guest alerted the Cordova Rural Health Unit.

Cordova Mayor Cesar Suan warned that violators could face criminal charges under Republic Act 6969, which provides penalties ranging from six months and one day to six years of imprisonment, as well as fines and possible revocation of permits.

Medical waste requires special handling because it may contain infectious materials or hazardous substances that can endanger waste collectors, communities and the environment when mixed with ordinary garbage or dumped in open areas.

Improper disposal also increases the risk of injuries from contaminated sharps, the spread of infectious diseases and pollution of waterways and coastal areas.

Suan urged businesses and other waste generators to seek assistance from the Solid Waste Management Office to ensure the proper disposal of medical and other hazardous waste.