The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) MIMAROPA, in partnership with 385 agencies and organizations, mobilized 7,261 volunteers for the annual International Coastal Cleanup (ICC) Day on September 21, 2024.
The massive regional effort, coinciding with the Maritime and Archipelagic Nation Awareness Month (MANA Mo), led to the collection of 22.156 tons (20,099.913 kilos) of waste across 55 coastal areas in the region.
This year’s cleanup was guided by the theme “Clean Seas for Blue Economy,” aligning with the United Nations Ocean Decade Challenge 4, which focuses on developing a sustainable and equitable ocean economy. The challenge highlights the critical role of maintaining marine biodiversity for a thriving blue economy.
Participants from government agencies, non-government organizations, schools, businesses, and religious groups from MIMAROPA’s provinces—Occidental Mindoro, Oriental Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, and Palawan—worked together to reinforce their commitment to preserving marine ecosystems.
DENR MIMAROPA Regional Executive Director Felix Mirasol, Jr. stressed the importance of the event.
“The theme ‘Clean Seas for Blue Economy’ reminds us that the health of our oceans is not just crucial for the environment but also for our economy. A clean ocean means sustainable livelihoods, from fisheries to tourism, and a brighter future for our coastal communities,” according to Mirasol.
He also acknowledged the long-term benefits of the cleanup, noting that removing waste from coastlines protects marine life and supports sustainable fisheries, key contributors to the blue economy.
“Every piece of trash we remove helps protect marine resources for future generations,” he added, expressing gratitude to the volunteers for their vital role in achieving cleaner seas.
