Sagay City bans use of plastics

By: Glazyl Y. Masculino

BACOLOD City – The city government of Sagay in Negros Occidental prohibits the use of plastics starting September 16, based on a memorandum signed by Mayor Alfredo Marañon III last August 28.

The mayor, in its memorandum, is enjoining the department and division heads to require the contacted caterers in city-sponsored activities to prohibit single-use plastics which include, but are not limited to, plastic toothpicks and straws, plastic cups and coffee stirrers, plastic/styrofoam food containers/wrappers, bottled water, soda and the like.

The Balay Kauswagan, as a venue for private gatherings, celebrations, and assemblies, shall also require the sponsors and caterers to “strictly observe” the prohibition on the use of plastics, as stated in the memorandum.

It is also stated in the memorandum that the Economic Enterprise and Management Office “may issue guidelines as may be necessary, consistent with and in furtherance of this memorandum.”

Marañon also urged the canteen and the employees who are taking their lunch and snacks to abide with the memorandum.

It is in line with their advocacy on the protection and preservation of the environment and in support of Senate Bill 40, or the Single-Use Plastics Regulation and Management Act of 2019, the city official said.

The cities of Sipalay and San Carlos are also implementing banning of plastics in their respective localities.