This year’s bigger and better coastal cleanup is supported by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the Philippine Coastguard and the local government of Pasay.
The event, which was supported by SM Cares, a Division of SM Foundation and the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of SM Prime Holdings, Inc., attracted more than 1,000 volunteers from different private and non-government organizations, was held at the 1.3-kilometer stretch of the SM by the BAY Central Park.
Perkin So, SM Supermalls’ Assistant Vice President for Operations, who took part in the event, said they were happy with the turnout of the participants because many more took part in the early morning clean up drive. “There are more participants this year than last year and we are hopeful that this drive will resonate better with the public to take care of our coast lines and our waters,” he said.
After the event, the Coastal Cleanup drive was able to collect several tons of trash. Participants of the cleanup drive were then asked to document the trash they collect, with the data gathered to be sent directly to Ocean Conservancy. The data gathered in this annual coastal cleanup are critical in determining the state of our coasts and sea water in the future, with the hopes that it will improve and not deteriorate in the long term.
The SM by the BAY Coastal Cleanup is an annual environmental awareness event wherein the coastal waters of Manila Bay will be celebrated and invigorated, not just for a day, but it will be an active drive that is promoted and supported the whole year-round.
With the continuing support of its local partners and sponsors, SM by the BAY is committed to the environment through raising awareness of ocean conservation, promoting community-based involvement, and improving the quality of the immediate area of Pasay City.
For media inquiries, contact thesmbythebay@gmail.com or 5560364.
