Manila: Employees from the government and Tanduay Distillers, Inc. (TDI) joined volunteers for the International Coastal Cleanup (ICC) Day 2025 organized by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). TDI was one of the private companies participating in the event, which focused on cleaning up Manila Bay Dolomite Beach.
According to Philippines News Agency, TDI volunteers collected 191.21 kilograms of waste from the shoreline during the cleanup on September 20. Francheska Cruz, Tanduay Group Safety, Environment and Risk Management officer, emphasized the company's ongoing commitment to sustainable and responsible business practices by participating in the ICC.
Cruz noted that TDI has a history of engaging in environmental activities such as coastal cleanups and tree-planting initiatives. Jona Lalo, part of the Sustainability Reporting staff, highlighted that the ICC participation aligns with Tanduay's corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts, which extend beyond the head office to include plants in Cabuyao, Laguna; El Salvador, Misamis Oriental; and Murcia, Negros Occidental.
Mel Reyes from TDI's Accounting department expressed fulfillment from participating in the cleanup, emphasizing the impact of removing waste on marine life and coastal communities. Repeat volunteer Ariane Fuentes found satisfaction in contributing to a positive environmental impact.
The ICC, recognized as the largest volunteer effort for ocean and waterway protection, adopted the theme 'Clean Seas Against the Climate Crisis' for this year's event. The DENR reported that in Metro Manila alone, over 25,000 volunteers from various organizations joined the cleanup, with nationwide participation reaching approximately 86,000 volunteers across 298 sites, collecting 460,000 kg of waste.
Major cleanup sites included Baseco Lagoon and Pasig River in Manila, SM by the Bay in Pasay City, Las Pi±as-Para±aque Wetland Park, Tanza Marine Tree Park in Navotas, Tullahan River in Quezon City, and the coastal areas of Aseana City and Solaire Resort in Para±aque.
The Department of Foreign Affairs - Maritime and Ocean Affairs Office also participated in the cleanup, coinciding with the 125th Philippine Civil Service Anniversary month. The agency highlighted the threat of marine debris, particularly plastics, to marine life and ecosystems, underscoring the ICC's role in promoting sustainable practices and environmental stewardship.