The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) said the discarded medical face masks, along with disposable plastics and other trash, are “slowly becoming a frequent sighting in Manila Bay waters.” Single -use face masks are being washed up on the shores of Manila Bay due to its inappropriate disposal.

Because of the pandemic, the “new normal” made us wear a mask every time we go outside. To protect us on getting the Coronavirus, we make sure we equip ourselves with protective gears such as face mask, face shield, gloves, hand sanitizers and alcohol.

To help everyone on how to handle and dispose their medical mask, we came up with steps on how to remove and dispose a medical mask properly:

1. Remove the mask from behind the ears or head.

2. Keep the mask away from you and surfaces while removing it.

3. Fold the mask into small layers so that it won’t consume a lot of space in the bin. This will also ensure that the bacteria stay in the mask.

4. Discard the mask immediately after use preferably into a closed bin.

5. Wash your hands after discarding the mask.

Disposable face masks should be used once and thrown in the trash. You should also remove and replace masks when they become moist.

DENR appealed to Metro Manila residents to properly dispose used face masks and other medical wastes, or better yet use washable face masks. The steps mentioned should be practiced whenever we use and dispose medical mask to help spread the viruses and help the environment.