Robredo to lead Manila Bay clean-up

MANILA, Philippines—Interior and Local Government Jesse Robredo on Friday said that he would lead officials and workers of his department in coastal clean-up drive in Manila Bay on the 26th anniversary of the Edsa People Power Revolution on Saturday.

The activity is part of DILG’s “One Day One Bay Campaign” and would be their contribution to the nearing commemoration of the 26th anniversary of Edsa People Power Revolution, according to Robredo.

Some 5,000 DILG personnel, as well as contingents from the Philippine National Police (PNP), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) and Philippine Public Safety College (PPSC), will work with barangay officials and residents in the clean-up activity at Brgy. 190, Don Carlos Village in Pasay City.

Robredo said that similar clean-up activities are scheduled in other key areas in Metro Manila.

“The success of this activity is anchored on the time-tested concept of people power or the active participation of the key sectors of the society which is the heart and soul of the Edsa celebration,” he said.

The clean-up drive would also highlight the Filipinos’ spirit of unity as shown during the first people power revolution, he added. “We have already proven many times in the past that when Filipinos become united in purpose and action, we can do many things. This time, let us commit ourselves to bring back the pristine beauty of Manila Bay,” Robredo stated.

The “One Day One Bay” campaign, being implemented under the DILG-National Capital Region’s Manila Clean-up, Rehabilitation and Preservation Project, seeks to rehabilitate and preserve Manila Bay and all waterways in Metro Manila.

It also seeks to reduce pollution in Manila Bay by 50 percent,  increase its vegetative content by 2015, and re-educate Filipinos about their responsibilities in protecting natural resources.

The DILG secretary said that the public should do their share by “practicing waste segregation and not throwing trash just anywhere and letting it flow toward Manila Bay.”