In a previous column, I wrote about the effects of plastic bags on our ecosystem. While several cities and municipalities have enacted ordinances prohibiting the use of plastic bags, in terms of implementation, few have strictly enforced the police. Sadly, despite being named one of the “most livable” cities, Bacolod City still continues to see ordinances mandating the use of crosswalks, banning smoking, barring the use of plastic bags, among other policies violated with impunity.

It is disappointing to see bright-minded politicians who are only good at lip service; you hear them discuss good plans, but there is zero implementation. They’re good during the campaign period and people still have yet to learn from history as they continue to repeat the same mistakes.

City Councilor Wilson Gamboa, Jr. proposed an ordinance prohibiting the distribution of plastic straws in an effort to curb the amount of trash in the city. Through the use of eco-friendly material, marine resources can be saved since plastic waste typically brings about pollution.

The proposal prohibits the “vending or selling, delivering , deploying, and giving or distributing for any purpose of plastic straws, whether or not to be used for any kind of beverage… [the use] of plastic straws for any purpose except for medical or emergency purposes.”

Plastic, in whatever form, has contributed to clogging local waterways and drainage – even worse, the city does not have a good drainage system to begin with; if plastic is not eradicated, the next bout of heavy rain will turn Bacolod City into a pool anew.

Good luck to Gamboa, I am hoping against hope, when your proposed ordinance becomes law, there will be strict monitoring and implementation./WDJ