The town of Calasiao in Pangasinan has banned single-use plastic bags.
Ordinance Number 9, Series of 2023 also bans styrofoam plates, cups, and bowls.
In implementing the ordinance, the local government has organized dialogues with vendors.
Vendors reportedly support the ordinance but have asked that they be allowed to dispose of their remaining stocks of plastic bags.
“Syempre, ‘yung marami ang stocks, sabihin sa kanila na ipaubos na lang. Bibigyan daw kami ng chance, three months na ipaubos,” said Remedios Surat, a vendor.
The banning of single-use plastic is the town’s response to the long standing problem of trash, especially at the market, because of plastic bags.
“Kaya nagsagawa ng ganitong programa ang munisipyo at MENRO para mabawasan ang basura na nakokolekta dito sa palengke para maiwasan na rin ang plastic,” said Teddy Tuliao, Calasiao Market Supervisor.
This time, consumers are encouraged to bring eco-bags or recyclable bags, something that Janet Estrada, a resident, does not mind doing.
“Para hindi na kami bibili ng platic, mababawas sa budget… ok lang na eco bag,” she said.
PENALTY
Individuals who will violate the ordinance may be fined up to P2,000 or render community service for up to 10 days.
Meanwhile, establishments that do not follow the policy may be fined up to P2,500 and face the possibility of their business permit not getting renewed.
PENALTIES FOR INDIVIDUALS
- 1ST OFFENSE: P500 OR 3 DAYS COMMUNITY SERVICE
- 2ND OFFENSE: P1,000 OR 5 DAYS COMMUNITY SERVICE
- 3RD OFFENSE: P2,000 OR 10 DAYS COMMUNITY SERVICE
PENALTIES FOR ESTABLISHMENTS
- 1ST OFFENSE: P1,000
- 2ND OFFENSE: P2,000
- 3RD OFFENSE: 2,500 OR NON-RENEWAL OF BUSINESS PERMIT/CLOSURE OF BUSINESS
