Northern Samar bans single-use plastic
TACLOBAN CITY—The provincial board of Northern Samar has enacted an ordinance that bans single-use plastic. The ordinance, approved on Nov. 4, prohibits stores and other establishments from dispensing single-use plastic bags, urging businesses and consumers to adopt ecology-friendly alternatives.
The measure has been transmitted to the office of Gov. Edwin Ongchuan for his signature.
Ongchuan, who has publicly backed the ordinance, said he hoped the province would serve as a model for environmental responsibility in Eastern Visayas, as the local law demonstrated their commitment to reduce plastic waste and promote a sustainable future.
Under the new policy, local businesses are encouraged to seek eco-friendly packaging solutions to ensure a consistent supply of sustainable alternatives.
The ordinance will take effect 15 days after publication in a local newspaper.
Exemptions
While the ordinance enforces strict regulations on plastic use, it includes exceptions for certain perishable items requiring preservation, such as ice, cooking oil, condiments and dairy products.
Recycled plastic sacks, the ordinance said, are permitted for grains and legumes like rice and mung beans, with rice dealers offering a buy-back option if bags remain reusable.
Cooked food items with sauce or soup may be packed in plastic or styrofoam for safe handling, and dine-in establishments must use reusable plates, bowls and glasses.
If alternative materials are unavailable, stores may provide one plastic bag per customer per shopping trip.
Penalties
The ordinance specifies several environmental offenses, including burning plastic materials which releases toxic fumes; dumping plastic waste in rivers and waterways, harming water quality and marine life; littering plastic in public or private spaces; using plastic bags or styrofoam as primary packaging in commercial establishments; selling eco-friendly or recycled bags at inflated prices; and sealing plastic bags with nonreusable materials, such as staple wires.
Violators face penalties that escalate with repeated offenses: a P500 fine or four hours of community service for the first offense; P1,000 or six hours of service for the second offense; and P1,500 or eight hours of service with potential imprisonment for the third offense.
Business owners risk suspension of their business permits for a second violation and revocation on a third. Public officers who violate the ordinance will incur a P1,500 fine and face administrative disciplinary action.
