Las Piñas soon to be 'plastic-free'

Starting January next year, the city government of Las Piñas will ban the use and distribution of plastic bags and polystyrene foam (styrofoam/styropor) with the passage of the "Plastic bag regulation ordinance" last September 15, 2011.

In a release, Las Piñas Mayor Vergel Aguilar said the passage of the ordinance is the local government's unwavering efforts in maintaining the ecological balance within their territorial jurisdiction.

"The banning of the use and distribution of plastics bags and polystyrene foam (styrofoam/styropor) will greatly contribute to the reduction of solid wastes generated by local communities that end up in canals, waterways, rivers, creeks, and streams and eventually in the bay," Aguilar said.

According to the city government, the ordinance prohibits commercial establishments from using thin film, single use, or carry-out plastic bags of carrying purchased goods.

"Indiscriminate dumping of plastic bags and packaging materials into the environment and its eventual burning in open dumps constitute a serious threat to public health and the integrity of the ecosystem," added Aguilar.

Section 3 of the ordinance prohibits commercial establishment from using/utilizing thin film, single use, or carry out plastic bags at the point of sale for the purpose of carrying goods.

In addition, Section 4 states the probation of commercial establishment from the use of polystyrene foam (styrofoam/ styropor) and other similar materials such as containers for food and other products.

Commercial establishments are likewise prohibited from offering or selling plastic bags to be used as packaging materials.
Aguilar also warned the public that stiff penalties will be imposed to violators.

Business establishment caught violating any of the prohibited acts shall face the following penalties: P1,000 fine on the first offense; P3,000 fine on the second offense; P5,000 fine and or imprisonment of not more than six months upon the discretion of the court, or worse, cancellation of license to operate for a period of one year.

The local chief executive also pointed out that the Sangguniang Panlungsod is mandated to protect the environment and impose appropriate penalties for acts which endanger the environment consistent with the mandate of the Constitution.

Meanwhile, a massive information education and communication campaigns are now in place to warn and prepare the people of its implementation.

Likewise, the city government is also promoting the use of alternative biodegradable packaging materials. -PIA — ARA