CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga (PIA) -- A total of 1,950 cubic meters of waste was collected from the 10-day coastal cleanup held in the towns belonging to Pampanga’s 4th congressional district.

This is an initiative of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in support of the Manila Bay cleanup and rehabilitation program.

DENR Regional Executive Director Ralph Pablo said about 2,500 beneficiaries of the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers program conducted a cleanup of major river systems and bodies of water in the municipalities of Apalit, Candaba, Macabebe, Masantol, Minalin, San Luis, San Simon, and Sto. Tomas.

“Wastes collected are composed mainly of plastic beverage bottles, drinking straws, and cups; styrofoam food containers and plates; plastic food wrappers; candy wrappers; and sando bags,” he shared.

Pablo thanked DOLE for the collaboration and highlighted the importance of concerted action in safeguarding and enhancing the water quality of Manila Bay.

"We are immensely grateful for the unwavering dedication of all those who participated in this coastal cleanup initiative. Their commitment to protecting our marine ecosystems is truly commendable and serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of environmental stewardship," he pressed. 

The activity signals a significant step forward in addressing the urgent issue of marine pollution and its detrimental effects on coastal environments. (CLJD/MJSC-PIA 3)