Palace backs use of reusable bags

MANILA, Philippines - Malacañang is backing the use of alternatives to plastic bags like those made of reusable canvas or cloth so that the country will be environment-friendly.

But deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said the decision would be up to local governments as various groups oppose the ban on the use of plastic bags, particularly those in Quezon City.

Business groups said the use of paper bags would be worse for the environment because this would entail cutting of more trees.

Valte said over radio dzRB that it would be up to the Quezon City government to answer the questions on the implementation of the use of non-plastic bags.

“But remember, paper is not the only alternative to plastic. The trend now is the use of reusable bags that are not made of paper,” she said.

“We encourage the use of reusable bags, especially canvass bags, that are washable and can be reused over and over again, instead of plastic,” she said.

Pasay defers plastic ban

In Pasay, the city government has deferred the implementation of the ban on the use of plastic bags in response to the clamor of business establishments.

Business owners asked the city government to give them more time to deal with the new measure, as this would affect their operations.

In a statement, Pasay City Information Office said City Ordinance No. 4647 Series of 2011 is supposed to be effective yesterday.

“The city ordinance will be gradually implemented to be able to educate owners of the business establishments. We will conduct more information campaigns so that we will get the support of the people as we implement the use of biodegradable/paper bags or reusable shopping bags,” the statement said, quoting Mayor Antonio Calixto.

The ban on the use of plastic is being implemented in some cities in Metro Manila but is being opposed by many business groups.