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Workers in Manila at risk - 13th October 2025

Sitting along a one kilometre stretch of road in Manila, The Philippines, are hundreds of workers breaking up electronic waste. Known as 'mambabaklas' in Filipino, they're on the hunt for nickel, aluminium and copper, which they can sell on.

This demanding work's putting the health of the workers in danger, as burning away the rubber casing around the wires releases a poisonous mixture of chemicals. Lead and mercury, amongst others, are emitted into the surrounding air. These can lead to health issues such as cancer, nerve and breathing-related issues, endangering children as well as adults. Rosana Milan is the head doctor at a health clinic.

Rosana Milan: "It's very risky for the babies, the toddlers, and even the schoolchildren because they're exposed to those kind of chemicals. Because while their father is working, no one to tend for the children."

This e-waste worker, Dexter Barsigan, has spent 13 years picking metal out of discarded laptops and air conditioners. Three years ago his hands began aching and his eyesight started to worsen. At times, he now has no choice but to observe his wife and nephew doing the work for him.

Dexter Barsigan: "I will continue this kind of work for our daily needs. I'll choose my children over my health. I would rather sacrifice my health for my children."

Generating 40 million kilogrammes of e-waste a year, The Philippines is among the top producers in Southeast Asia. Although there are official facilities for waste disposal, with strict regulations, the mambabaklas are untrained and lack protective gear. The group Medicins du Monde has been attempting to overcome this by providing the workers with masks, gloves and safety advice. It's also taking steps to get the workers recognised, but coordinator Eva Lecat understands the workers' priority.

Eva Lecat: "And them struggling with earning enough money just to feed their family, this is not their first priority. You know, health is clearly not their first priority. Their priority is to have food on the table."