Cigarette butts make up majority of trash in Metro Manila—MMDA

Cigarette butts were the most common type of trash thrown in the streets of Metro Manila in 2023, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) said.

In 2023, 79 percent, or 12,918 individuals, were apprehended for tossing cigarette butts on the streets, according to the Anti-Littering Apprehension report. It can be noted that it also topped the same report in 2022.

Next on the list is paper with 9.4 percent or 1,523 violators, and candy wrappers with 8.3 percent or 1,343 violators.

The remaining 2.4 percent was attributed to other trash.

Those who will be caught disobeying the MMDA Regulation 96-009, which prohibits “littering, illegal dumping, illegal disposal of garbage” particularly “in public areas and immediate surroundings, including vacant lots, rivers, canals, drainage, and other waterways” are subject to penalties.

Offenders would be penalized with fines worth P500 to P1,000 and may serve eight to 16 hours of community service.

According to MMDA, violators who fail to settle their violation will be sent a Summon/Notice of violations. If it is still ignored, a case will be filed against them in the Metropolitan Trial Court (MTC) where he/she committed the violation.

The court will strictly adhere to the Rules of Criminal Procedure. Furthermore, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) will receive a copy of the filed case for record. If violators will still ignore the subpoena, MTC will issue a “Warrant of Arrest” and the case will be forwarded to the Bureau of Immigration. 

The MMDA reminds the public to be responsible citizens and dispose of garbage properly. It added that cigarette butts, paper, and candy wrappers can block drainages and other waterways, which cause flooding in the metropolis. (with reports from Ghio Ong)