Anti-Burning Law of the Philippines & Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000 RA 9003

The anti-burning law in the Philippines, specifically concerning open burning of solid waste, is primarily governed by Republic Act (RA) 9003 (The Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000) and RA 8749 (The Philippine Clean Air Act of 1999). Section 48 of RA 9003 explicitly prohibits open burning of solid wastes, and RA 8749 addresses the burning of hazardous substances and wastes.

Elaboration:
RA 9003 (Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000):
This law prohibits open burning as a form of solid waste disposal, including agricultural waste. It mandates a comprehensive solid waste management program with the goal of protecting public health and the environment.

RA 8749 (Philippine Clean Air Act of 1999):
This law addresses air pollution, including the burning of hazardous substances and wastes, and includes penalties for such actions.

Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of RA 9003:
The IRR defines “open burning” as thermal destruction of wastes by direct exposure to fire.

PENALTIES:
RA 9003 and RA 8749 both provide penalties for violating the prohibitions on open burning, which can include fines and imprisonment.

Local Ordinances:
Many local government units (LGUs) also have their own ordinances prohibiting open burning, often specifying penalties for violations. For example, a municipality in La Union, Philippines, has an ordinance with fines and potential imprisonment for open burning.

NSWMC Resolution No. 1468, Series of 2021:
This resolution strengthens enforcement of RA 9003’s provisions on open burning.