Phils. recognized as capital cleanup of the world
By MARIKARL C. GUDIO
Bugabus Elementary School
South Butuan District I
By virtue of Presidential Proclamation No. 470, s. 2003 dated September 15, 2003, the 3rd Saturday of September of each year was declared as the International Coastal Cleanup (ICC). It is a global initiative since 1986 by the Ocean Conservancy, formerly the Center for Marine Conservation, a nongovernment organization.
The Philippines joined the ICC in 1994 with the International Maritime Alliance as the country coordinator and more than 3,000 volunteers cleaned the shorelines and underwater sites. Since 1988, the Philippines has consistently topped the ICC, in terms of volunteer turnout, and has been recognized as the cleanup capital of the world.
To celebrate the International Cleanup, the ICC Philippines, Inc. recommends the following guidelines to be led by the schools division offices through the schools division superintendent or duly assigned representative to safely conduct cleanup: Aside from the set date, the cleanup timeframe will be expanded from August to December 31, 2022 to limit the volume and physical contact among volunteers; and conduct a small-scale or group cleanup in locations where physical distancing is easily achievable. It does not necessarily have to be on the shoreline or beach, but in the neighborhood: community, schools, homes, businesses, and work surroundings since trash originates from land.
Also, prior to any cleanup activity, coordinate with the barangay or local government unit (LGU) official, especially when conducting cleanups on public areas such as beaches, rivers, and parks. This is to ensure that health and safety protocols are in place. Likewise, to seek their assistance in the hauling of trash collected.
It is also recommended that the use of face mask and gloves must strictly be enforced during the event, along with other health protocols, such as physical distancing, disinfecting/soaping of hands, and tools used after the cleanup.
Furthermore, it is highly recommended by the Department of Health (DOH) that volunteers must have primary vaccinations and at least one booster shot to reduce the risk of serious infection requiring hospitalizations. ###
