Using plastic bags in the City of Valenzuela may soon become a thing of the past once it approves a proposed measure filed before the city council.

The proposed "Paper Bag Ordinance" filed by Councilor Alvin Feliciano seeks to ban the use plastic bags in all markets, eateries, sari-sari stores, and other similar business establishments in the city.

Once approved, the proposed Ordinance No. 2010-006, "will effectively prohibit the use of plastic bags and other non-biodegradable containers in all commercial establishments," Feliciano said.

Feliciano, president of the Liga ng mga Barangay in Valenzuela City, said plastic bags are some of the materials commonly used by people that end up clogging esteros and canals that eventually lead to flooding during rainy season.

Aside from clogging the waterways, these plastic materials also contribute to the pollution of the forests and bodies of water, which in turn worsen the problem of global warming, he said.

He said the non-biodegradable character of these plastic bags prompted him to file his proposed paper bag ordinance.

In his proposal, Feliciano called for the replacement of plastic bags with paper bags that are much safer, biodegradable, and environment-friendly.

Under the proposal, a business owner found violating the ordinance will face the following sanctions: first offense – written notice and warning; second offense – a fine of up to P5,000; third offense – a  fine of P5,000 and temporary suspension of business permit of up to 15 days; fourth offense – a  fine of P5,000 and temporary suspension of business permit of up to 30 days; and fifth offense – revocation of business permit.