Quiapo clinic shut down over improper disposal of used rapid test kits

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The Manila City government on Thursday shut down a clinic in Quiapo over its improper disposal of used rapid test kits for the coronavirus disease 2019.

According to Mai Bermudez’ report on “24 Oras,” the CP Diagnostics Center will remain closed until the issue has been resolved.

“Agad nating ginawa ‘yung ating show cause [order]... mabigat ito e,” Manila Bureau of Permits officer in charge Levi Facundo said. 

“We will comply. We apologize for any… it was a mistake,” a representative from the clinic told Facundo.

Mayor Isko Moreno added that the local government may revoke the business permit of the clinic while the probe is underway.

“In the absence of the explanation, for the meantime, we might go to the revocation of their business permit. Now, it’s up to DOH (Department of Health) if they’re going to revoke also their license to operate as a clinic,” he said.

The two garbage collectors who picked up the infectious waste from the clinic said they had no idea that the sacks were punctured and contained used rapid test kits. 

“‘Di ko po kinalkal ‘yun… sabi po kasi sa’kin, kalakal e kaya ayon, do’n na nangyari ‘yun,” one collector said.

“Hindi po namin sinasadya ‘yun. Kusang nangyari po ‘yun, talagang hindi ko nga po alam na meron do’n e. Nagulat nga rin po ako e,” another added.

Police Captain Val Valencia of the Lacson Police Community Precinct said the two garbage collectors will become witnesses against the CP Diagnostics Center.

Meanwhile, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources warned violators against the improper disposal of medical waste.

“We’re looking into it and our people are there already to check on it and, at the same time, make legal actions against this unscrupulous diagnostic center,” Environment Undersecretary Benny Antiporda said.—Julia Mari Ornedo/LDF, GMA News