MANDAUE City officials have a new request for government employees and residents: trade your disposable plastic bottles for reusable tumblers. This push is part of a larger effort to tackle the city’s growing waste problem.
Mayor Thadeo Jovito “Jonkie” Ouano said the initiative is meant to encourage behavioral change and set an example for the community.
“Yes, we are in favor of this, no plastic bottles, and everyone should bring their own water bottle. Actually, I also have my own bottle, and this helps save and reduce plastic waste,” Ouano said.
Leading by example
Ouano said the City is not making this initiative mandatory yet, as changing habits takes time.
“We just want to encourage, especially our City Hall employees, to bring their own tumbler and refill it instead of buying individual plastic bottles. Other local government units are doing this too, and it’s something we can imitate,” he said.
Officials want to start with government offices where the practice can be implemented quickly. The goal is to eventually extend this to public spaces, markets, and events.
Addressing “plastic waste crisis”
Councilor Carlo Fortuna stressed the urgency of addressing the city’s plastic waste.
“Right now, knowing we have a crisis, we are asking the government to set an example by not using plastic water bottles. They just keep piling up in the trash,” Fortuna said.
Fortuna is asking all offices to participate, not just City Hall.
“Our solution is for government employees to bring a flask or canister and just refill it to lessen disposable plastic. We’re calling on everyone not just in City Hall but in all government offices, including national agencies in Mandaue to bring their own bottle and refill it instead of buying disposable ones.”
Reviewing rules
Fortuna added that the City Government is reviewing the implementation of its existing ordinance on single-use plastics. While the rule remains active, it has seen limited enforcement in recent years.
“The ordinance still exists, but we are discussing how to better implement it. Some retailers have reverted to single-use plastics in markets and other areas, and we want to focus on reducing it, especially during events. Right now, reduction is our objective,” he said.
“We’re calling on everyone to reduce waste in their homes and in the city. Reuse, reduce, and recycle—reduction is what we need now,” he added.
A shared responsibility
Councilor Jen Del Mar, for her part, welcomed the initiative, describing it as a positive step toward shared environmental responsibility.
“My reaction is very positive. Everyone should do their share. For me, I’ve been bringing my own bottle ever since to minimize the use of plastic,” Del Mar said.
Environmental advocates have long warned that plastic bottles contribute heavily to landfill issues. During the rainy season, improper disposal can lead to clogged waterways and flooding.
Ouano and the councilors hope that through education and advocacy, Mandaue City can significantly cut down on single-use plastics.
“Behavioral change takes time, but if we start now, we can set the foundation for a more sustainable future,” Ouano said. “This is not just about saving money or reducing plastic, it’s about protecting our environment.” / ABC