The president of The Philippine Plastics Industry Association Inc. (PPIA) indicated on Monday that the proposal imposing an excise tax on single-use plastic bags might bring a fatal economic impact on the industry.
A PHP10 per kilo levy that is said to be imposed on single-use plastic bags is “very detrimental to low-income earners” Go said, and members of the plastic industry are currently suffering the negative impact of local bans on plastic usage. Go further indicated that the government can still find alternative ways to save the environment without imposing additional taxes on plastic.
"We should instead strengthen the information, education and communication campaigns on the use of plastic bags, but plastics have satisfied all requirements. It is reusable-recyclable, non-toxic and biodegradable. Plastic has become a punching bag," he said.
Nueva Ecija Rep. Estrellita Suansing, the author of House Bill 178, said her proposal seeks to impose excise tax, which would be charged at the point of sale of products for every plastic bag provided by supermarkets, malls, shops, stores, sales outlets, and similar establishments.
“It is a known fact that plastic bags contaminate soil and waterways. Based on available data, 4 to 5 trillion plastic bags are utilized worldwide each year and billions of these end up as litter. These are, likewise, toxic to both humans and animals, especially, when accidentally ingested. Plastic marine debris has been documented to harm at least 267 species, among which are sea turtles and dolphins.” Suansing said.
Based on the bill, 50 percent of the revenues from the excise tax on single-use plastic bags shall be allocated to the solid waste management fund provided under the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000.
From: Philippine News Agency
