15 areas in Lapu-Lapu set for coastal cleanup

CEBU, Philippines — Fifteen areas across Lapu-Lapu City have been identified as cleanup sites for the 2026 International Coastal Cleanup on September 19.

The city government, in partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Central Visayas (DENR-7), is preparing for the annual coastal cleanup, which will carry the theme “Clean Seas for Resilient Communities.”

The designated areas cover coastal communities in both mainland Lapu-Lapu and nearby island barangays, with the cleanup expected to involve government workers, residents, organizations, schools, businesses, and other volunteers.

The 15 cleanup areas are Poblacion’s Ferry Boat Area, Pajo’s Bridge Park, Pusok, Ibo, Buaya, the Liberty Shrine Area in Mactan, Punta Engaño, Angasil Area in Mactan, Maribago, Agus, Marigondon and Suba-Basbas, Babag, Calawisan, Canjulao and Looc, and Olango Island covering Caubian, Pangan-an and Caohagan.

The areas were identified by the City Environment and Natural Resources Office and DENR-7 as part of preparations for the city’s participation in the global environmental initiative.

Preparations were discussed during a coordination meeting at the mayor’s office last August 28, attended by city officials and representatives from DENR-7.

Among the preparations is the collection and analysis of data on the waste gathered from the different cleanup sites.

Designated area focal persons will be responsible for consolidating and documenting waste data, while DENR-7 will deploy safety officers to provide assistance during the activity.

City Hall employees will participate in the cleanup in their assigned areas together with community sectors, government and private agencies, institutions, organizations, businesses, schools, and individual volunteers.

The city government will lead the opening program at Bridge Park in Barangay Pajo, with the coastal cleanup scheduled to start at 6 A.M.

Volunteers have been advised to bring their own water bottles, gloves, and hand sanitizers for the activity.

They are also encouraged to wear appropriate protective equipment, including boots and masks, while participating in the cleanup. — (FREEMAN)