BAGUIO CITY – The local government has banned the use of plastic bags in stores, groceries, and other establishments, as these are supposedly among the city’s main source of garbage.

To lessen the amount of plastics being disposed of by locals, the Baguio city council approved on final reading ordinance number 35, series of 2017, or the “Plastic and Styrofoam-Free Baguio Ordinance” on April 24.

Stated in the ordinance are regulations banning the use of plastic bags polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene foam container or “Styrofoam”, in stores, groceries, supermarkets and other establishments.

Customers will be asked to use eco-friendly bags or reusable bags made of cotton, coco cloth, abaca, buri, water lily, and other recycled materials instead, to carry items or goods.

Penalties ranging from P1,000 to P3,000, or cancellation of business permit will be imposed if any establishment or stall fails to follow the regulation.

However, the business establishments are given a period of one year to fully comply with the provisions.