Victorias City gov’t offices to ban plastics

By Glazyl Y. Masculino

BACOLOD CITY – The city government of Victorias in Negros Occidental will ban single-use plastics in all government offices starting June 3.

This follows Executive Order (EO) No. 64, series of 2022, issued by Mayor Javier Miguel Benitez.

The prohibition includes plastic straws, plastic bags, disposable cutlery, plastic water bottles, styrofoam containers, plastic stirrers, and plastic condiment packets.

Employees are encouraged to choose sustainable alternatives and reduce plastic waste by using reusable metal or bamboo straws, cloth or reusable shopping bags, eco-friendly bamboo cutlery, stainless steel or glass water bottles, biodegradable food containers, wooden stirrers or spoons, and refillable condiment containers.

Third District Rep. Jose Francisco “Kiko” Benitez lauded the mayor’s initiative as a way to protect the environment.

The congressman authored Republic Act 11898, the Extended Producers’ Responsibility Act, which mandates local government units (LGUs) and plastic manufacturers to recover, collect, and clean up plastic waste.

“EO No. 64 is a welcome development and a testament to Victorias City’s concern for the environment,” he said.

The lawmaker also led the technical working group in the 18th Congress responsible for passing House Bill 9147, the proposed Single-Use Plastic Products Regulations Act.

He said banning single-use plastics is a critical step toward a sustainable economy and will significantly benefit the environment and future generations.