SEVENTY-FOUR volunteers marked Ocean Month in Capiz with a coastal and underwater cleanup in Sitio Culasi, Barangay Lonoy, Sapian, collecting 191 kilograms of waste.
The Capiz Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (CaPenro) led the activity in partnership with Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Capiz and the Sapian Municipal Government.
DENR-Capiz Information Officer Ma. Judy Bernas said the event included a “Scubasurero” underwater cleanup targeting Crown-of-Thorns Starfish (Cots), coral bleaching monitoring, and a coastal cleanup along the shoreline.
Cots are marine invertebrates that can severely damage coral reefs.
DENR-Capiz officer-in-charge Ernest Federiso highlighted the vital role of coastal and marine ecosystems in food security, oxygen production, and climate regulation.
He said even small actions can have a ripple effect in protecting the ocean.
CaPenro information officer Wilmon Alinsangan praised the volunteers’ unity, stressing that shared responsibility drives effective environmental action.
He noted that the Philippines is among the top contributors to marine plastic waste, and that cleanups can inspire lasting change.
DENR Coastal and Marine Ecosystems Program coordinator Jean Carla Ibanez discussed the importance of citizen science and Republic Act 9003 on solid waste management, emphasizing the need for proper waste segregation and disposal.
Collected debris included plastic bags, bottles, food wrappers, fishing gear, diapers, and even a busted lightbulb, highlighting persistent marine pollution.
Ibanez said partnership, education, and community participation remain key to ocean protection and the future of coastal communities.
This year’s Ocean Month theme is: "Unlock Ocean-Based Solutions to Climate Change – Karagatan ang Solusyon." (PIA)