THE Daanbantayan Municipal Government in northern Cebu has begun enforcing a new ordinance aimed at reducing plastic waste by requiring natural alternatives for packaging fish and meat in its public market.
The rules, which took effect Saturday, Aug. 16, 2025, are based on Municipal Ordinance 18-2020, Article 19, Section 61.
The Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (Menro) announced the ban in a Facebook post.
Daanbantayan urged its residents to use reusable containers when shopping. Consumers are encouraged to bring eco-bags, pails, clean pots or ice boxes. The use of nylon strings is also prohibited.
“Kini nga lakang usa ka dakong kontribusyon alang sa pagpanalipod sa atong kinaiyahan ug sa pagpanglimpyo sa atong palibot,” Menro said.
(This step is a major contribution to protecting the environment and cleaning up the surroundings.)
Fines
The ordinance imposes a P500 fine or eight hours of community service for a first offense, P1,500 or 16 hours of community service for a second offense, and P2,500 or 40 hours of community service for a third offense. A fourth offense may result in one to six months in prison at the court’s discretion.
In a separate action, the Municipal Government issued Memorandum 2025-004, which immediately bans single-use plastic bottles within the Municipal Hall.
The prohibition applies to all offices, conference rooms, hallways and official government functions.
Signed by Mayor Gilbert Arrabis Jr., the memorandum directs all municipal employees to use reusable containers.
The municipality announced the ban on its Facebook page on July 15, warning that violations could lead to administrative action and other sanctions. / CDF