In a united effort to promote environmental sustainability, Watsons Philippines, along with media partners including LionhearTV and employee volunteers, took part in the annual International Coastal Cleanup Drive on Saturday, September 21, in Pasay City.
The event was held at Central Park, SM by the Bay, and was led by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the Philippine Coast Guard, in collaboration with Watsons PH, other corporations, and schools.
As a leading name in health, wellness, and beauty retail, Watsons Philippines once again demonstrated its commitment to environmental responsibility through its coastal clean-up efforts. This initiative aligns with the brand’s broader goal of positively impacting both the planet and the community.
The clean-up was part of the 39th International Coastal Cleanup, with the theme “Clean Seas for Blue Economy.” This annual event, which takes place every third Saturday of September, is organized in accordance with Presidential Proclamation 470.
Volunteers were well-prepared for the task, bringing sacks, face masks, reusable water bottles, and rakes to collect the debris. Thousands of participants, including government officials, NGO representatives, students, and individuals from the private sector, came together to contribute to the cause.
The volume of waste collected required the use of dump trucks, with most of the trash consisting of plastic, styrofoam, bamboo, and driftwood—much of it washed ashore due to recent storms like Carina, Enteng, and the southwest monsoon.
Medical support was also on standby, with ambulances present to assist anyone in need.
Officials anticipate collecting several tons of garbage from the Manila Bay coastline. Last year’s clean-up, organized by SM during the 38th International Coastal Cleanup, led to the removal of over 100,000 kilos of waste from the bay area.
