3 Cebu cities push for proper mask disposal

The three major cities in Cebu have separately pushed for an ordinance that prohibits the improper disposal of masks and other coronavirus protective gears and products.

The first to pass and approve the ordinance is Lapu-Lapu. It was sponsored by councilor Ricardo Amores, who is the City Council Committee on Environment and Natural Resources chairman.

In an interview, Amores cited Republic Act 9003 or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000 which prohibits littering and other acts detrimental to public health.

The public health emergency has resulted in increased consumption and disposal of personal protective equipment (PPE), as well as disinfectant and hygiene products to prevent infection and contain the spread of the virus.

“A photo documentation by the zero waste advocacy group EcoWaste Coalition, including posts by concerned local netizens showed used masks, as well as PPE were improperly disposed,” Amores disclosed.

In Lapu-Lapu City, the penalties were pegged at P1,000 for first offense, P3,000 for second offense and P5,000 for third offense.

In separate interviews, Mandaue City councilor Carmelino del Mar Jr. and Cebu City North district councilor Alvin Dizon said proposed ordinances have already been filed.

Del Mar said a resolution has been adopted by the Mandaue City Council and the proposed ordinance will have its first reading on 23 September.

Dizon said that the proposed ordinance has already been referred to the Committee on Laws and Ordinances.

The Cebu City Council, on the other hand, is set to conduct a public hearing on the proposed ordinance.

In Lapu-Lapu City, the penalties were pegged at P1,000 for first offense, P3,000 for second offense and P5,000 for third offense.

Meanwhile, EcoWaste Coalition coordinator Lito Vasquez said that there are proposals to put up a system to segregate used masks and PPE from the household level to the dumpsite/landfill.