TO PROMOTE a ban of single-use plastics, the Junior Chamber International (JCI) Cebu Sinulog will launch the Scubasurero 2019 to address the plastic debris and waste problem in commercialized areas of Lapu-Lapu City.

Supported by environmentally-focused institutions, the group and the Lapu-Lapu City government are calling out to all divers, whether newbies or with experience, to volunteer.

"This dive will help us determine what kind of trash are in our seas and what is the volume because the data will be compared to the dives we did the previous years. If the volume is heavier, then we need to do more aggressive campaign," said Andy Berame, head of the Lapu- Lapu City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office.

He encouraged volunteer divers to join in order to preserve Lapu-Lapu's world-famous beaches.

"The data that we will gather will also help our local legislators in coming up with ordinances and policies to protect our seas and the marine life," Berame added.

Johndale Dyenghong, Scubasurero ambassador and businessman, said the movement will spread awareness for the public to properly dispose their garbage.

He stressed that as companies in the country seek sustainable ways in cutting their plastic imprint, the public should also do their part through proper waste management and disposal.

"Banning plastic bags would save the ocean but that method would ask too much cost of money and effort from us Filipinos. Since there are many ways to solve a problem, I would go with discipline and Scubasurero is one way of educating people how hard it is to pick trash so might as well not throw it," he said.

Henny Sescon, 2019 JCI Cebu Sinulog president, said the event is open to 100 volunteers divers and will happen on April 21 at the Boyla Diving Resort Terminal in Barangay Maribago, Lapu-Lapu City.

It will be held on a Sunday, a day before the World Earth Day.

She said those who are interested to participate can check out their Facebook page, JCI Cebu Sinulog. (JOB)