If you’re thinking of dining in at restaurants or hotels in Quezon City soon, here’s an important reminder: The city’s ban on disposable and single-use plastic resumes today, July 1.

The ban was temporarily lifted last May following guidelines set when the city was among those placed under modified enhanced community quarantine.

City Ordinance 2876-2019, which mandates the ban of disposable and single-use plastic, states that restaurants and hotels are prohibited from distributing these items to dine-in customers. Aside from plastic utensils, cups, plates, straws, stirrers and the like, hotels are also likewise prohibited from distributing hygienic products like soap and shampoo in sachets or single-use containers.

In a statement last February, the QC government’s Environmental Protection and Waste Management Department Head Andrea Villaroman also emphasized the importance of the public’s cooperation with the ordinance.

“We would also like to remind the public that eco bags or reusable bags should be properly disinfected before and after use in groceries and markets. We are also encouraging the public to use their own eating utensils in their homes and offices as they consume their [takeaway] food,” Villaroman said. 

[READ: Breaking down sustainability in the food industry via F&B Report]

Fines and penalties will be issued to establishments who fail to comply with the ordinance.