In celebration of this year’s International Coastal Clean-Up Day, students, government officials, and community partners gathered on September 19, 2025, at the Sabang Park Area, Barangay Zone 2, Bulan, Sorsogon to take part in a coastal clean-up drive aimed at protecting marine ecosystems and raising environmental awareness.
The activity was conducted in cooperation with PEMSEA (Partnerships in Environmental Management for the Seas of East Asia) and was strongly supported by various civil society organizations, student leaders, government agencies, and uniformed personnel, aligning with SDG 14 (Life Below Water), and SDG 17 (Partnership for the Goals).
Among the distinguished guests present were Hon. Chezka Mae B. Robles, Acting Mayor of Bulan; Dr. Ma. Elena C. Demdam, Campus Director of SorSU-Bulan Campus; Ms. Kelly C. Tan, the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Officer of Bulan; and Hon. Jojo Geraldino, Punong Barangay of Zone 2. Their presence emphasized the importance of collaborative action in addressing environmental challenges.
The clean-up participants, headed by student leaders, also conducted data gathering and recording of the plastic wastes collected, contributing to a global database used to track marine pollution. This educational component highlights the role of young people not only as volunteers but also as contributors to scientific and policy-oriented initiatives.
With the joint efforts of the academe, local government, civil society organizations, and national agencies, the event successfully showcased how united action can create meaningful impact.
Prior to the clean-up, an awareness campaign session for NSTP students was conducted on September 13, 2025 at SorSU-BC Social Hall where resource persons tackled marine plastic pollution, introduced the International Coastal Clean-Up Day, oriented the students on plastic waste data collection, and emphasized the significant role of the youth in promoting marine environment care.
This year’s coastal clean-up reaffirmed Bulan’s commitment to environmental stewardship and its active role in the worldwide movement to protect the seas.
