Mandaue City residents could face a P1,500 penalty for repeatedly burning household waste, as the city government steps up enforcement against the practice amid the threat of hotter and drier conditions associated with El Niño.
The Mandaue City Environment and Natural Resources Office (MCENRO) reminded residents that open burning of any type of waste is prohibited under the city’s Anti-Littering Ordinance.
Louella Bering, focal person of MCENRO’s Monitoring and Enforcement Unit, said the ban covers both plastic materials and biodegradable waste, including dried leaves.
“Gi-disallow gyud na ang open burning,” Bering said.
She noted that some residents burn dried leaves collected outside their homes because they are unaware that the practice is prohibited.
“Which is bawal, even dahon basal na,” she said.
Bering warned that burning waste during hot and dry weather could easily trigger fires. Smoke from burning materials could also affect the health of nearby residents who inhale it.
She urged households to observe proper waste segregation and disposal rather than resort to burning their garbage.
MCENRO eco-enforcers will continue responding to reports of open burning, including those received at night, while conducting information and education activities to inform residents about the ordinance.
When enforcers find an ongoing burning activity, they will immediately instruct the violator to extinguish the fire.
For first-time offenders who are unaware of the prohibition, the office will prioritize education and guidance. However, repeat violators will be issued citations and fined P1,500.
“If ever naa na sad laing report nga the same person who is doing the violation, ato na silang issue-han og citation and pabayron na sila sa ilang penalties,” Bering said.
She said the information campaigns would also explain proper waste segregation, including how to identify hazardous materials and waste that could pose fire risks.
The reminder comes as Mandaue prepares for possible El Niño conditions, which could bring elevated temperatures and reduced rainfall, increasing the likelihood of fires in residential communities.
Comments