Zamboanga City — In a significant move to strengthen cleanliness and environmental responsibility, Zamboanga City has formally adopted the “Clean As You Go” (CLAYGO) policy into law through Ordinance No. 713, recently signed by Mayor John Dalipe.
The ordinance, titled “An Ordinance Advocating Cleanliness and Environmental Responsibility through Mandating and Institutionalizing the Clean As You Go (CLAYGO) Policy in all Food Establishments within the Jurisdiction of Zamboanga City,” mandates individuals to clean up after themselves in food establishments and public spaces. Failure to comply will result in strict penalties: ₱1,000 for the first offense, ₱2,000 for the second, and ₱3,000 for the third and subsequent violations.
Initiated by Councilors Vicente Guingona, El King Omaga, Al-Jihan Edding, and Charlie Mariano, the ordinance aims to instill a culture of cleanliness and hygiene across all sectors, particularly in food-related establishments such as restaurants, cafeterias, coffee shops, eateries, bakeries, fast food chains, and school canteens. The policy also extends to public places where food and drinks are served with dine-in options.
Food establishments are now required to display clear signage promoting CLAYGO practices and proper waste segregation in all dine-in areas. Additionally, they must provide accessible hand-washing facilities for customers to encourage hygiene and sanitation.
“This ordinance is more than a policy—it’s a call to action for every Zamboangueño to take part in keeping our city clean and safe, especially in spaces where we gather to eat,” said Mayor Dalipe during the signing.
To ensure its proper implementation, the ordinance mandates the creation of the CLAYGO Board, which will oversee compliance and enforcement. The board will be chaired by the city mayor and co-chaired by the vice mayor, with members from concerned government agencies and offices.
The CLAYGO Ordinance is designed to complement existing local policies such as the Solid Waste Management Ordinance, the Anti-Littering Ordinance, and the Night Market Ordinance. Together, these laws reinforce the city government’s commitment to sustainable waste management and public hygiene.
By institutionalizing CLAYGO, Zamboanga City positions itself not only as a cleaner urban center but also as a leading destination for safe and quality dining experiences in the region.