MARIVELES, Bataan — Environmental groups launched a public awareness campaign in Mariveles, Bataan, to support the implementation of a municipal ordinance banning the use of single-use plastics as part of efforts to address plastic pollution.

The campaign, led by the Young Bataeños for Environmental Advocacy Network (YoungBEAN) and the Nuclear-Free Bataan Movement (NFBM), backed the enforcement of Municipal Ordinance No. 31, which prohibits the use of single-use plastics in the municipality. The activity forms part of the initiative to curb the growing problem of plastic waste in Mariveles.

Volunteers distributed information materials and reusable tote bags made from recycled tarpaulins and streamers to encourage residents to comply with the ordinance and shift to environmentally friendly alternatives.

YoungBEAN-PUP Chairman Raymart Pelicaño said the campaign is one of several activities organized in July to promote environmental protection and reduce dependence on disposable plastics.

“The ordinance passed by the Sangguniang Bayan is an important step toward reducing the use of single-use plastics and promoting a cleaner, safer, and more united Mariveles,” Pelicaño said.

The groups also thanked Councilor Venancio Villapando Jr., the principal author of the ordinance, along with its co-authors, who attended the event to express support for the environmental measure.

YoungBEAN and NFBM called on Bataeños to support the ordinance by avoiding disposable plastic products and adopting sustainable practices to help create a cleaner environment for future generations. (Ang Pahayagan Reportorial Team)