FOOD vendors plying their wares inside the Cebu City Hall are no longer allowed to use plastic wrappers and should cover their food with banana leaves or wax paper.
The Cebu City government also encouraged buyers to bring their own paper bags or eco bags.
The executive order issued by Mayor Tomas Osmeña banning single-use plastic bags took effect yesterday.
“This is going to start with some adjustments but we have to start something. Mangayo lang ko ug pasaylo sa mga tawo, nga maningkamot lang ta (I’d like to apologize to the public but we will do our best),” said Osmeña.
The EO prohibiting the use and entry into the city hall building of single-use plastics such as sando-bags, straws, plastic utensils, water bottles, plates, etc was signed by the mayor last July 3, which is aimed at reducing plastic waste.
There is also an existing ordinance (City Ordinance No. 2343) that bans the use of plastic bags in all private establishments every Wednesday and Saturday.
Osmeña said plastic, particularly water bottles, largely contribute to the flooding in Cebu City, prompting him to ban plastic in Cebu City “through stages.”
“Eventually, yes, this will be a city-wide ban,” he added.
But even if the plastic-ban is only applicable within city hall, Osmeña also urged establishments to start efforts to attain a plastic-free environment.
“Akong gihangyo, labi na ang restaurants, if naay take-out order, do not put plastic spoons and forks. If they (customers) ask for utensils, give them something else,” he explained.
Utensils
Public Information Officer Malou Inocando – Tabar told reporters they also encourage employees and visitors to bring their own water tumblers and utensils.
“We monitored the perception of the implementation and we observed that the order is being followed,” said Tabar.
Ma. Fe Ernane, one of the vendors selling food in City Hall’s canteen, said they opted to use wax paper and banana leaves to cover the food they are selling.
“We are also preparing paper bags, wax paper and banana leaves for the take-out orders,” said Ernane. /with Jessa Mae O. Sotto