By Edwin Fernandez and Noel Punzalan/Philippine News Agency
SHARIFF KABUNSUAN COMPLEX, Cotabato City — Government workers are no longer allowed to bring “single-use plastics” within the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) offices inside this compound.
This, after BARMM Interim Chief Minister Ahod “Al Haj Murad” Ebrahim ordered a total ban on the use of “single-use plastics” effective immediately.
In a memorandum dated June 17 but made public on June 26, Ebrahim has directed the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources and Energy (MENRE) to supervise the implementation of the order.
“Single-use plastics such as plastic bags, straws, cups, plates, spoon and forks, polystyrene (such as Styrofoam) containers and similar items are no longer allowed in all offices of the BARMM,” Ebrahim said.
“Caterers are also advised to place food in containers either made of paper, plant-based wrappers or reusable plastic containers,” he added.
Ebrahim said all BARMM officials and employees are enjoined to use reusable containers, tumblers, mugs and/or biodegradable food packs to help protect the environment.
He added BARMM is mindful of its role and mandate to protect the environment and promote the right of the people to a balanced and healthful ecology.
MENRE-BARMM Minister Abdulraof Macacua said his office will strictly enforce the memorandum in all offices within the BARMM regional complex as well as in provincial offices and public schools.
Among the banned items include bottled mineral water, plastic cups, instant noodles containers, “Sando” bags, instant coffee containers, among others.
Macacua said all employees were advised to bring recyclable water containers to avoid the use of plastics.
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