In a bold move to combat plastic pollution, the Daanbantayan Municipal Government in northern Cebu has enacted a new ordinance that mandates the use of natural alternatives for packaging fish and meat in public markets. The regulation, which became effective on August 16, 2025, is grounded in Municipal Ordinance 18-2020, Article 19, Section 61, and represents a significant step toward environmental preservation.
Ban on Plastic Packaging
The Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (Menro) publicized the ban through a Facebook post, urging residents to embrace more sustainable shopping habits. Consumers are encouraged to bring reusable containers, such as eco-bags, pails, clean pots, and ice boxes, to reduce reliance on single-use plastics. The use of nylon strings for securing goods is also prohibited under the new ordinance.
“Ini nga lakang usa ka dakong kontribusyon alang sa pagpanalipod sa atong kinaiyahan ug sa pagpanglimpyo sa atong palibot,” said Menro, emphasizing that this initiative is a major contribution to protecting the environment and cleaning up the surroundings.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
The ordinance lays out strict penalties for violations. A first offense will incur a fine of PHP 500 or require eight hours of community service. For a second offense, fines increase to PHP 1,500 or 16 hours of service, while a third violation can result in a PHP 2,500 fine or 40 hours of community service. Moreover, repeat offenders may face imprisonment for one to six months, contingent on court discretion.
This strict enforcement underscores the municipality’s commitment to fostering a cleaner environment and discouraging habits that contribute to plastic waste.
Complementary Measures in Municipal Hall
In addition to the market regulations, the Daanbantayan Municipal Government has also issued Memorandum 2025-004, which prohibits the use of single-use plastic bottles within the Municipal Hall. This directive, signed by Mayor Gilbert Arrabis Jr., applies to all municipal offices, conference rooms, hallways, and official government functions, and mandates that employees utilize reusable containers instead.
This dual approach to tackling plastic waste highlights Daanbantayan’s comprehensive strategy to address the environmental issues posed by disposable plastic. The municipality announced this initiative on its Facebook page on July 15, warning that violators could face administrative action and other sanctions.
Community Engagement Encouraged
As part of this sustainable initiative, Daanbantayan officials are fostering community involvement and encouraging residents to develop eco-friendly habits. The emphasis on using personal reusable containers not only aids in reducing plastic waste but also helps to create a culture of environmental stewardship within the community.
With these measures, Daanbantayan aims to set a precedent for other municipalities, showcasing how local governments can actively participate in the global fight against plastic pollution and promote greener practices among their citizens.
By prioritizing sustainability and responsible consumption, Daanbantayan is taking significant strides toward a cleaner and more environmentally conscious future.
