No, burning trash in the Philippines is illegal under national and local laws, with exceptions only for agricultural waste in rural areas under strict conditions. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) enforces Republic Act No. 9003 (Ecological Solid Waste Management Act), which prohibits open burning due to air pollution risks. Local governments, such as Metro Manila’s MMDA, impose additional fines, while the 2026 Philippine Clean Air Act revisions tighten enforcement against violators.
Key Regulations for Burning Trash in Philippines
- Republic Act No. 9003 (2000): Prohibits open burning of solid waste, including household and industrial trash, with penalties up to ₱1 million and imprisonment for repeat offenders.
- Clean Air Act (Republic Act No. 8749): Classifies open burning as a major air pollutant, empowering DENR to issue cease-and-desist orders against violators.
- Local Ordinances: Cities like Quezon City and Manila impose supplementary fines (e.g., ₱1,000–₱5,000) and community service for violations, aligning with the 2026 National Framework for Waste Management.
Exceptions exist for agricultural burning (e.g., rice straw) but require prior DENR approval and adherence to air quality standards. Violators face escalating penalties under the 2026 amendments, including asset forfeiture for industrial-scale offenders.