Ban of plastic bags in Talisay eyed

CEBU, Philippines - Lawmakers in Talisay City are looking into the possibility of banning plastic bags in shopping malls, markets, and smaller stores, saying plastic bags have been a major cause of flooding in the city by clogging the drainage system.

Councilor Rodi Cabigas, chairman of the Council committee on infrastructure, said they are now studying a proposal that aims to prohibit the use of plastic and instead push for eco-friendly products like paper bags.

The move came after floodwaters covered many areas in the city these past days following persistent rains. City Engineer Audie Bacasmas told The FREEMAN that plastic bags have clogged up the drainage system and prevented the water from flowing freely. Piles and piles of plastic bags were collected from the city's waterways during subsequent clean-ups. 

Plastic bags also reportedly compose a big bulk of household waste. Cabigas said banning plastic bags would then "hopefully lessen our tons of garbage each day."

Tomorrow, Vice Mayor Alan Bucao and the city councilors will discuss the proposed measure thoroughly. Cabigas said he personally believes that banning plastic bags would minimize "perennial flooding" in some villages in Talisay.

Even if city officials agree to implement the measure, Cabigas said it would take a while before it can be fully enforced because concerned parties like owners of shopping malls and suppliers of plastic would have to be consulted in a public hearing. He said objections can be anticipated.

"Naghunahuna pud ta nga daghan moreklamo ani pero padayunon gihapon nato…pasabton lang nato sila nga kaayuhan ni sa Talisay," Cabigas said. –JMO (FREEMAN)