Koko Pimentel, Zubiri pushing plastic use reduction

MANILA, Philippines — Senators Aquilino Pimentel III and Juan Miguel Zubiri are pushing for a reduction in the use of plastic in the country amid reports that the Philippines is one of the biggest sources of plastic waste dumped into the oceans.

Citing the 2015 Ocean Conservancy report, Pimentel said the situation is critical, particularly for the fisherfolk, and must be addressed immediately.

The report indicated that more than half of the eight million metric tons of plastic waste dumped into the oceans every year comes from China, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam and the Philippines.

“Our economy’s strong performance has increased production and consumption. Unfortunately, it also increased the plastic waste we generate in the course of our daily activities. It’s time we consider how we can use plastic in a less destructive way,” Pimentel said.

He added that, if left unchecked, there would be more plastic than fish in the world’s oceans by 2050, citing official projections.

“It will be a disaster for everyone if we are to lose our fishing industry and the livelihood and sustenance it provides,” the lawmaker said.

Among the measures he is supporting are the elimination of single-use plastic bags in the country and that of making all disposable plastic bags biodegradable. He is also considering the filing of a bill that would limit the use of plastic in industry and trade. 

“I understand the convenience and economics of plastic use. However, we should never let short-term benefits doom us in the long term,” Pimentel said.

Senate Majority Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri believes it is time to enact a law to ban single-use plastic in the country.

Once a bill is presented in the Senate, Zubiri said he would ensure that it is given priority.