The Mandaue City Council is set to review an existing city ordinance regulating the use of single-use plastics.
The move is part of the city’s efforts to address its persistent garbage problem.
City Ordinance No. 12-2010-562, also known as the Plastic Bag Prohibition Ordinance of 2010, took effect in September 2010.
It aims to help prevent flooding caused by clogged drainage.
The ordinance requires establishments to use paper bags, cloth bags, recyclable paper, or other reusable alternatives.
Violators may face a fine of P500 or imprisonment of up to five days.
Councilor Carlo Fortuna said the ordinance remains in effect.
He added that discussions with Mayor Thadeo Jovito “Jonkie” Ouano have focused on how the law is implemented on the ground.
Fortuna acknowledged that single-use plastics continue to contribute significantly to the city’s waste problem.
While some retailers comply with the ordinance, he noted that plastic use remains widespread, particularly in public markets and other commercial areas.
“So that’s what we’re going to focus on,” Fortuna said, referring to the planned review of the ordinance and its enforcement.
The councilor also urged event organizers and vendors to limit the sale of water in plastic bottles.
He encouraged the public to bring their own reusable tumblers instead.
Fortuna emphasized the need for the city to take the principles of reuse, reduction, and recycling more seriously.
He said reducing plastic waste is currently a top priority for Mandaue.
“Panawagan nato sa tanan nga reduce nato atong waste sa atong panimalay ug sa atong syudad,” Fortuna said.
Earlier, Fortuna filed a resolution encouraging the use of reusable water tumblers instead of disposable plastic bottles.
The resolution is part of broader measures to curb the city’s growing waste problem.
Under the measure, government offices, including City Hall and national government offices in Mandaue, are encouraged to lead by example.
Agencies are urged to promote the use of personal water bottles among employees and provide refilling options to reduce reliance on disposable plastics. (VCL)
