Ban on plastic bags

ALBAY – Starting June 1, the use of plastic bags, Styrofoam and other synthetic fabrics as packaging materials will be prohibited in the province.

Residents and business establishments have been given a year to prepare, according to the chair of the provincial board’s environment committee, Board Member Arnold Embestro. The ordinance was signed by Albay Governor Joey Salceda on February 21 last year.

Embestro said consumers had been advised to bring bags made of paper, cloth, abaca, buri and other recyclable materials when they shop.

The ordinance carries a fine ranging from P1,000 to P5,000 including the cancelation of business permits for violators. Mar S. Arguelles, Inquirer Southern Luzon