A CALL FOR DAILY ACTION | People’s Press PH

The International Coastal Cleanup (ICC) in Pagadian City was a resounding success, drawing more than 4,600 volunteers who collected 57 cubic meters, or 20 tons, of trash along our shorelines. The turnout is a powerful testament to the community spirit of Pagadianons, showing that when citizens, institutions, and leaders unite for a shared cause, real and meaningful change is possible.

But while the cleanup was a day of collective pride, it should also serve as a reminder: environmental responsibility does not end with a single event. Garbage collected during the ICC is evidence of the continuing challenge we face. Plastic waste and other debris will keep returning unless we address the problem at its root—our habits at home, in our neighborhoods, and in our workplaces.

This is why the call must extend beyond the beach. Every household, business, and school in Pagadian must take part in the daily practice of cleanliness. Proper waste segregation, reducing single-use plastics, recycling, and maintaining clean surroundings are simple yet powerful steps that, when done consistently, can prevent waste from reaching our coasts in the first place.

We commend Mayor Sammy Co for his leadership and his commitment to maintaining the cleanliness of Pagadian City. His acknowledgment of the volunteers’ efforts reflects a clear understanding that environmental stewardship is both a collective and continuous task. The mayor’s example should inspire all local officials and stakeholders to integrate environmental initiatives into governance and community programs.

The ICC’s theme this year, “Clean Seas Against the Climate Crisis,” underscores the urgency of linking our local actions to a global fight. Climate change and pollution are not abstract issues; they affect the health of our seas, the safety of our food supply, and the future of our children. By keeping our homes and communities clean, we contribute to a larger effort to preserve biodiversity, mitigate climate risks, and ensure a livable future.

Pagadian has shown it can mobilize thousands for a cleaner coastline. Let us now show that we can sustain this effort in the everyday choices we make. The real victory will not be measured in tons of trash collected in a single day, but in the visible transformation of our city into a model of cleanliness and responsibility.

The challenge is clear: Let us carry the spirit of the coastal cleanup into our daily lives. Together, we can ensure that Pagadian remains not just a clean city for today, but a sustainable home for generations to come.

Hardline Publication Philippines

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