Coastal cleanup addresses growing pollution along San Juan, Batangas shores

To target seasonal pollution issues along San Juan, Batangas shores, Aboitiz Land recently led a strategic coastal cleanup in collaboration with the Aboitiz Foundation Inc. and Communities Organized for Resource Allocation Nonprofit.

The shores of San Juan provide vital economic livelihood and recreation opportunities to the surrounding community. However, seasonal coastal threats from marine pollution, especially plastic waste, have heightened concerns about habitat and ecosystem degradation in the area. Locals have observed a worrying increase in non-biodegradable debris, particularly plastic packaging and bottles, washing ashore.

Aboitiz's "Coastal Cleanup Amihan," named after the amihan winds that characterize the monsoon season from late October to early April, aims to address the growing pollution along the coastline of Barangay Calubcub II.

Joining the effort were Seafront residents, Aboitiz Land employees, the Municipal Environmental and Natural Resources Office of San Juan, Batangas and MENRO Sariaya, Quezon, the Philippine Coast Guard, Barangay Calubcub officials and PNP San Juan.

"Non-biodegradable debris, especially plastics, threaten not only the health of our oceans long-term, but the ability of communities like San Juan to enjoy clean and thriving coastal habitats," said Aboitiz Land CEO David Rafael. "Cleanups like Amihan represent the commitment of the locals and private sector to preserve our coastal environments and ensure access to stunning seascape views of the province."

While the annual coastal cleanup happens during September, locals identified the amihan season as needing special attention due to the sheer volume of debris ending up on their shores during this time of year. 

Armed with trash bags and pick-up tools, volunteers fanned out along the shoreline and collected nearly 750 kg of plastic waste, including bottles, wrappers, caps, sachets and styrofoam.

The massive volume of marine debris and plastic waste products collected by Coastal Cleanup Amihan highlights the urgent need to make more conscientious consumption choices to avoid further harming the environment.

Aboitiz Foundation president and chief operating officer Maribeth Marasigan commended the day's accomplishments, saying "the clean up efforts contribute to a cleaner, brighter future for our oceans and shores. When we change today, we can shape the future and create a sustainable legacy. Let us continue the work, and may this mark the continuation of a more eco-conscious journey for all of us."