Spearheaded by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), this year’s ICC celebration aimed at providing the people, particularly the new generation, a broader understanding on the land and sea-based pollution and their potential impacts to human health and ocean systems.

 

DENR Coastal Resources and Foreshore Management Chief Jovencio Payba said the event also aims to solicit efforts in reducing short-term use materials that would eventually turn into litters in the oceans and other smaller waterbodies.

 

To help abate ocean pollution and advocate for healthier seas, over 200 participants from the Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine Army, Philippine National Police, local government units, sangguniang kabataan, private organizations, DENR field offices, and the community joined in the said activity.

 

Some divers in the region also conducted scubasurero to ensure that the ocean floors are also free from marine debris.

 

Majority of the wastes collected were plastic wrappers and bottles, face masks, face shields, cans and cigarette butts. These were segregated prior to transporting to the material recovery facilities.

 

The ICC is celebrated annually every 3rd Saturday of the Month of September by virtue of Presidential Proclamation No. 470 s. 2003. #