I take it that the caustic it is in dilute form as lye water? Gulp. Just checked it on Wikipedia. Sodium Hydroxide. We stick this stuff into oil wells to regulate the alkalinity of the drilling fluid. The men who handle it have to take special precautions for handling it. I imagine it might be great for cleaning pots and pans. I have just checked the Material Saftey Data Sheet for Lye Drain Opener........

What if you dont use Lye water? I suppose one doesn't get the authentic Filipino taste then.....

I will ask in the Asian food shop here if they have any, failing that there is a branch of B and Q across the road from it.