ALL personnel of the Lapu-Lapu City Government have been directed to use reusable water bottles, food containers and utensils as part of a sweeping new initiative to reduce plastic waste.
In her first executive order upon assuming office on Monday, June 30, 2025, Mayor Ma. Cynthia “Cindi” King-Chan directed all City Government employees, regardless of rank, to use reusable water bottles, food containers and paper-based utensils.
Chan saw the need to intensify waste reduction, reuse and recycling efforts, particularly targeting single-use plastics and plastic bottles, which make up the bulk of waste found in the city’s drainage systems and coastal waters.
She noted that tourism remains the backbone of the city’s economy, making cleanliness crucial to maintaining its status as a world-class destination.
Nelson Sanchez, a marshal from the mayor’s office, expressed his support for the newly implemented policy discouraging single-use plastics in the workplace. He believes that the mandate is a positive step toward environmental sustainability.
“It’s good that the trash in the environment will now be controlled and that people will be discouraged from throwing waste anywhere,” Sanchez said.
“A tumbler, for example, doesn’t get thrown away easily. That’s why reducing the use of plastic really helps,” he added.
Sanchez, who has been in service for six years, shared that while he had heard of such environmentally friendly practices before, this is the first time he has seen it officially adopted in his office.
A casual employee also expressed his support for the waste management initiative, citing the significant reduction of scattered trash, particularly plastics, in the environment.
Memorandum 001-2025, titled “Measures to Minimize the Use of Single-Use Plastics in LGU (local government unit) Activities,” also requires department and office heads to use paper-based food containers and utensils for packed meals during official activities.
A separate directive outlined in Memorandum 003-2025 orders all used promotional tarpaulins to be turned over to the Manpower Development Office for conversion into reusable bags.
Tarpaulins displayed on center islands, streetlights, utility poles, skywalks, the City Hall lobby and other designated areas must be taken down.
The General Services Office or Clean and Green Office is responsible for removing the materials 30 days after their date of posting.
Council session
Meanwhile, the 17th Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) convened in an inaugural session at the City Hall Session Hall on Tuesday afternoon, July 1.
Presided by reelected Vice Mayor Celedonio Sitoy, he was joined by the 12 council members: incumbents Marciano Jun Alforque, Annabeth Cuizon, Susan Baring, Celestino Aying, Jan Vincent dela Serna, Efren Herrera, Ariane Yap, Rufo Bering, Montor Tatoy Jr., Jeorgen Eyas‑Book, Joseph Pangatungan and former Canjulao barangay captain Rufo Bering.
Also in attendance were ex-officio members Association of Barangay Councils (ABC) President and Basak Barangay Captain Jasmine Marie “Daday” Chan and Sangguniang Kabataan Federation President Orlan Joseph Carungay.
Chan, along with her husband newly installed Congressman Junard “Ahong” Chan, attended the session to show their support.
During her speech, the new mayor called for the same support they had shown former mayor Ahong.
She also recognized her fellow officials for their continued service and contributions to local legislations that have strengthened the City’s foundation.
“In the years passed, you have been instrumental in putting forward meaningful programs and landmark ordinances to improve lives and strengthen our City’s foundation,” said Mayor Cindi, the district’s former House representative.
The special session was also attended by barangay captains along with department and office heads. / DPC with interns Antonette Caren Arrabis, CNU Intern; Yvon Maratas, Benedicto College Intern; Dane Riechel Oja, VSU Intern