THE Baguio City Council recently approved ordinance no. 35, series of 2017 also known as the Plastic and Styrofoam Free Baguio Ordinance to continuously preserve the environment for the sake of the constituents of Baguio and its future generations.
Acting City Mayor Edison Bilog believes the best location where the ordinance will e launched and implemented will be at the city public market which it is the primary area where plastic bags and styrofoam are commonly being used for trade.
Bilog issued administrative order no. 160, designating the city public market as the pilot testing area for Plastic and Styrofoam Free Baguio to be launched on November 6 at the public market.
“It is in the best interest of the health, safety and welfare of the residents that this regulation discourages the use of plastic bags and polystyrene foam containers also known as styrofoam, reduce the cost of solid waste disposal by the city, protect the environment and recover the cost in promoting the use of recyclable paper bags and reusable bags in the city of Baguio,” stated in the order.
Penalties for violation are reprimand or immediate closure for establishments without business permit for first offense, P1,000 fine for second offense, P3,000 fine and eight hours community service for third offense and P5,000 fine and suspension of business permit for six months for fourth offense.
Penalties for violation of any of the provision by heads of the city government offices, school administrators, principals and concerned persons in authority will be subject to Republic Act No. 6713 and other local orders and issuances.
The measure also provides awards and recognition for those who will sustain compliance.
With the city experiencing problems in managing its garbage, this measure hopes to lessen the amount of solid waste generated. Less plastic and styrofoam use will help reduce solid waste disposal cost and protect the environment as well. (Jho Arranz)