Sen. Francis Pangilinan Pangilinan said manufacturers in the Philippines should take the cue from consumer giants that have already switched to plant-based plastics that can break down within a shorter period. “Magandang opportunity itong pandemya dahil sobrang dami ng mga nagpapa-take-out o nagpapadeliver. Kung merong biodegradable alternatives, tiyak na magiging matagumpay ito (This pandemic is a good opportunity because many people are now opting for take-outs or deliveries. If there are biodegradable alternatives, I’m sure that they will succeed),” he said in a statement. The senator called for the passage of his Senate Bill 40, which proposes a ban on the use, manufacture, and importation of single-use plastic and seeks to encourage the research and development of biodegradable alternatives.