On a sunny morning on September 21, 2024, a vibrant group of volunteers gathered at Baseco Beach, a hidden gem in the heart of Manila. Spanning 10 hectares, this reclaimed area often faces the brunt of pollution, making it a perfect target for some much-needed love and care. Organizing this heartwarming event were the Lighthouse Legacy Foundation, the Philippine Association of Marine and Environmental Scientists (PARMS), and MAD Travel. They aimed to rally the community around a shared goal: to clean up the beach and raise awareness about the importance of protecting our oceans.
Walking Together for Change
Among the enthusiastic crowd were students and educators from the Don Bosco School of Theology, led by the inspiring EPR Director Zed Avecilla of PARMS. As they arrived, you could hear the buzz of excitement in the air. The volunteers quickly fell into step, kicking off the day with a lively walk through the Baseco community, soaking in the sights and sounds of the area. The journey toward Station 4 of Baseco Beach was not just about getting there; it was a moment to connect with the local culture and community.
The Cleanup Adventure Begins!
Once they reached the sandy shores of Baseco Beach, the real fun began! Armed with trash bags and gloves, the determined volunteers fanned out across the beach, ready to tackle the mountain of man-made debris that had washed ashore. They laughed as they worked, sharing stories and motivating one another to collect everything from pesky plastics to stubborn styrofoam. The teamwork was infectious; as one volunteer exclaimed while picking up a rubber boot, "You never know what you'll find on a beach cleanup!"
Sorting Through the Impact
Sorting through the collected trash was an eye-opening experience. Members of Kabalikat, a local organization dedicated to recycling and waste management, helped sort the items into different categories, showcasing the scale of the pollution issue. The sheer volume of debris collected illustrated the urgent need for such community efforts and the importance of educating others about responsible waste disposal.
Learning and Growing Together
As the sun climbed higher in the sky, the volunteers didn’t just leave with filled trash bags; they also carried away newfound knowledge. Experts from PARMS engaged the participants in discussions about plastic pollution’s impact on marine life and how small everyday choices can lead to significant change. The students were particularly eager to learn, their passion adding an electric energy to the conversations.
A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Recycling
After a hard day’s work on the beach, the group made their way to the newly opened Kabalikat Materials Recovery Facility (MRF). The visit was an exciting peek behind the curtain of recycling processes — volunteers watched in awe as machines transformed their collected trash into usable materials. It was a turning point, where the day’s efforts took on new meaning. One participant even remarked, “It feels good to know that what we picked up can have a second life!”
Reflections and Revelations at the Baseco Beach Cleanup
To wrap up an incredible day, everyone gathered at the Baseco Evacuation Center for a debriefing session. Sharing stories and reflections, the camaraderie was palpable. Each person left feeling empowered, ready to carry the message of sustainability back to their schools and communities.
Together for a Cleaner Future
The beach cleanup event at Baseco Beach was ambitious, inspiring, and above all, a heartwarming reminder of what can be achieved when people come together for a cause. With support from organizations like the Coca Cola Foundation, Sentinel, Urban Poor Associates, Ocean Conservancy, and Precious Plastic Philippines, the volunteers made waves in the fight against pollution.
This day wasn't just about cleaning the beach; it was about creating a movement and fostering a sense of community pride that can last long after the trash bags are filled. Together, they took significant steps toward a brighter, cleaner future for Baseco Beach and beyond.
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