“Plastic bags and styrofoam are among the top trash collected during our yearly citywide cleanup, it is also one of the main reason why our drainage clogs up, that is why we opt to ban plastic in the city,” Mayor Rolen Paulino said. He added that it is also the city’s way to help protect and care for the environment.
“Kailangan namin ang tulong ng lahat, pag nakita sana nila na gumagamit pa rin ng plastic bags or styro yung tindahan, sabihan na nila, o mag-report sa aking opisina, hindi lang naman ang local na pamahalaan ang makikinabang dito, buong Olongapo lalong lalo na ang mga maliiliit na bata na maiiwan natin sa syudad, lahat tayo dapat maging miyembro ng task force,” Paulino said.
The mayor also formed a task force composed of selected personnel from the local government to monitor and implement the said ban.
The ban on plastic bags and styrofoam started January 1, 2017 after a gradual implementation last year.
Under City Ordinance No. 11, Series of 2015 violators will be fined P1,000 for the first offense, P2,000 for the second offense and P5,000 plus cancelation of business permit will be given to establishment for the third offense.
The ban started 3rd quarter last year for one day, on Wednesdays; follow by a twoday ban during the 4th quarter of 2016 on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
The ordinance encourages residents to use recyclable bag, bayongs, eco bags, biodegradable plastic, paper cups and paper food container as replacement for the banned material.
Paulino further explained that the gradual implementation of the ban last year was the request of the establishments since they have already stocked on plastic bags for their use.
“But now the honeymoon is over, we need to adhere to the law and I am very positive that we can achieve this goal by helping each other,” Paulino said.
– Johnny reblando w/ Olongapo PIO
