DPS urged to reassess recyclebin project

CEBU, Philippines — The Cebu City Council has requested the Department of Public Services (DPS) to reconsider putting up of plastic bottle receptacles to avoid these bins from being used as dumping sites of all kinds of garbage.

The council said this kind of practice is defeating its purpose on proper waste segregation.

“This representation observed that the garbage bins for empty or used plastic bottles near and surrounding the Cebu City Cathedral are also filled with other trash. They are being used as dumping sites of all kinds of garbage,” said Councilor Raul Alcoseba.

Alcoseba sponsored the resolution on the matter which was approved by the City Council on Wednesday.

“The intention of providing these kinds of garbage bins is laudable, however, considering the present state, the same does not serve its purpose where some irresponsible persons indiscriminately throw all kinds of garbage into the aforesaid bins,” he said.

He cited City Ordinance No. 2031 which is an ordinance for the implementation of solid waste segregation at source providing penalties for violations thereof, and the creation of a special funds for incentives.

Section 6 of the ordinance provides that “segregation of wastes must be absolutely observed”.

Under the ordinance passed in 2004, city and barangay garbage collectors shall turn down unsegregated garbage.

It also classifies garbage into several types namely biodegradable or compostable wastes, non-biodegradable wastes, reusable or recyclable wastes, hazardous or special wastes, and bulky wastes and white goods.

CO 2031 mandates a fine of P1,000 to P5,000 or imprisonment of one to six months for violators. — KQD (FREEMAN)