Puerto Princesa City – A substantial reduction in coastal waste was achieved as 96.26 tons of garbage were collected during the recently concluded 4th episode of the “Save the Puerto Princesa Bays” program on Saturday, September 9.
Aside from the invigorating early morning Zumba dance, participants also enjoyed music provided by the Mitus Tribe.
The morning came to life as the band introduced new lyrics, “save the Puerto Princesa bays,” harmonizing with “para sa mga salinlahi natin” from the song “Kapayapaan.” The official theme song of Save the Puerto Princesa Bays was also launched, adding vibrancy to the program.
A special guest, Ms. Philippines Earth 2023 Yllana Marie Aduana, shared her advocacy related to “Sustainable Development Goals 14 or Life Below Water.”
She emphasized the need to preserve and protect our oceans, reminding everyone that humans are an integral part of biodiversity.
Aduana stated, “We have to preserve and protect our environment, most especially our seas or oceans because we, humans, are part of this biodiversity. If we will not do our part to make our marine life protected, sino po ang asasahan natin?” (Who can we rely on?)
Ms. Rowena Cunanan, CSC Field Office – Palawan Director II, also stressed the importance of activities like Save the Bays in instilling discipline among citizens regarding proper waste disposal.
Furthermore, President of the Philippine Canoe Kayak and Dragonboat Federation (PCKDF) Coach Leonora “Len” Escollante announced the upcoming ICF Dragonboat World Championships 2024 in Puerto Princesa, expected to draw thousands of foreign participants from over 72 countries.
Coach Len expressed the federation’s enthusiasm for the program, explaining that funds or sponsorships obtained for the forthcoming international event would contribute to the expansion of Save the Bays.
Mayor Lucilo Rodriguez Bayron conveyed his excitement for the Dragonboat World Championships, stating that it would not only boost the city’s economy but also showcase Puerto Princesa’s capability to organize significant international events.
The program also included EM Mudball Throwing, Scoop Basura (Trash Scooping), and Coastal Cleanup activities.
According to data from the Oplan Linis Program and Solid Waste Management, a total of 212.66 tons of various types of garbage have been collected from the first to the fourth episode, spanning Brgy. Mandaragat, Bagong Silang, Pagkakaisa, and Bagong Sikat.
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