What is plastic? #PlanetorPlastic

Entry for National Geographic 's #PlanetorPlastic Writing Contest.

As of now, the Philippines is the third largest contributor to plastic in the ocean. We are a country that, despite being a smaller country compared to China and Indonesia which are the first and second largest sources of mismanaged plastic in the world respectively, are apparently so careless and irresponsible as to be part of the top three in a list that includes the whole world. We cannot blame the government solely for this problem because it is not only them who is at fault. It is the citizens as well who must take responsibility for our own actions.

I was born in the Philippines, and I've been living here ever since. I know the attitude of most Filipinos, and I am sad to say that it is very common for us to be imprudent about our waste. It is not uncommon to see candy wrappers and plastic bottles everywhere, from the streets to the outdoor parks, and even inside classrooms and malls. We are careless and irresponsible for our waste, and I am ashamed of it. However, I feel that there is still hope for our future, and so in light of this, I would like to dedicate this short story to my native country, the Philippines.