ORMOC CITY – On Monday, November 7, 2022, Ormoc City Mayor Lucy Marie Torres-Gomez signed Executive Order (EO) No. 2022-0081, that is, an “Executive Order Banning the Use of Single-Use Plastics in All Activities Sponsored by the Local Government Unit of Ormoc.”

Accordingly, the said EO orders and directs the prohibition of single-use plastic products such as individual water or soft drink bottles, cups, plates, utensils, lunch boxes, bowls, and packs to include Styrofoam in all government-sponsored activities.

In addition, all caterers and organizers of government-sponsored events are prohibited from using such products and are directed to use reusable materials such as washable plates and cups, washable spoons and forks, and other utensils.

Meanwhile, all City Hall employees and users are encouraged to use their own tumblers/mugs, reusable utensils, and washable plates.

Accordingly, Section 300 of Republic Act (RA) 7160 provides that Local Government Units shall share with the national government the responsibility in the management and maintenance of ecological balance within their territorial jurisdiction. For this reason, Ordinance No. 51 Series of 2021 regulating the sale and use of single-use plastic products was enacted by the Sangguniang Panlungsod of Ormoc, prohibiting the use of single-use plastics and similar materials in the sale of goods in Ormoc City. The said ordinance paved the way for Ormoc to be as plastic-free as possible all year-round; and the city government aims to set a good example with the issuance of EO No. 2022-0081, as well as inspire other private and government establishments to follow suit. By Gwen Maurillo (EV Mail November 7-13, 2022 issue)