The weight  of inheritance - DE RERUM NATURA By Maria Isabel Garcia

Several residents in Pasay City yesterday complained of foul odor coming from a warehouse where a strong chemical liquid had spilled.

PO3 Ariel Inson of the Police Community Precinct 7 said they proceeded to A. C. De Guzman Street in Malibay after receiving a call from one of the concerned residents about the chemical leak.

Inson said a container of the chemical ethyl acrylate stored inside the warehouse of Kemwerke Inc. had cracked because of the hot weather. The chemical had leaked from the cracks onto the ground.

Ethyl acrylate is reportedly one of the chemical ingredients  used to produce paints. It has reportedly a mild effect on the respiratory system but could be hazardous with continuous exposure.

Inson said occupants of nearby houses have been complaining of the unpleasant smell.

It was only after sand was thrown over the chemical that the odor was somehow stifled.

Meanwhile, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) said the residents need not worry anymore because the chemical drum was sealed.

Inson stressed though that the residents should file a formal complaint so that authorities, such as the city’s Environmental Office, can step in and conduct a thorough investigation of the incident.