LINGAYEN, PANGASINAN—The Provincial Government of Pangasinan (PGP) is strictly prohibiting littering, throwing of garbage, filth, and other waste matters in open or public spaces within the Capitol Complex.
Prohibition was made official through the passage of Provincial Ordinance No. 322, Series of 2024, which was crafted and approved by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) on April 15.
Said ordinance, which SP Member Vici M. Ventanilla authored, stated that “Republic Act No. 9003, also known as the Ecological Solid Management Act of 2000, states that there is a need for an ecological solid waste management program, creating the necessary institutional mechanisms and incentives, declaring certain acts prohibited and providing penalties, appropriating funds therefor, and for other purposes.”
SP Ventanilla added that through the ordinance, the public would be aware that it is their sole duty and responsibility to protect and keep the environment clean and sanitary.
Aside from the public, stakeholders within the Capitol Complex, such as all facilities and establishments under the jurisdiction, operation, and management of the PGP, as well as private institutions and business establishments in the area, are obliged to keep their respective surroundings clean and orderly.
Prohibited acts shall also include waste not properly placed in trash cans or bins.
Any person who violates the ordinance shall be subject to the following penalties: P500.00 for the first offense; P1,000.00 for the second offense; and P1,500.00 for the third offense and subsequent offenses.
Those who will be caught violating the law can settle their payments with the Provincial Treasurer’s Office within 72 hours from the issuance of the citation ticket.
The ordinance shall take effect within 15 days after its publication in a local newspaper and after posting copies of the said ordinance in conspicuous locations within the Capitol Compound in Lingayen.
(Ruby F. Rayat/PIMRO)
