AKLAN — The Provincial Government of Aklan, through the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist, spearheaded a coastal clean-up drive on September 17 at Pook Jetty Port, Barangay Pook, Kalibo town, in celebration of the 62nd Fisheries Conservation Week.
More than 350 volunteers from various agencies and organizations took part in the activity, including personnel from the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG)-Aklan, Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office, Philippine National Police, Bureau of Fire Protection, Rotary Club of Kalibo, the Local Government Unit of Kalibo, Bantay Dagat, Barangay Pook Council, Temple Street 13, and community stakeholders.
The initiative aimed to remove marine debris and plastic waste along the shoreline while raising awareness about the threats of ocean pollution to marine biodiversity.
In his message, Provincial Administrator Atty. Selwyn C. Ibarreta lauded the spirit of volunteerism, commending the dedication of government employees and community members who participated in the clean-up.
The provincial government reaffirmed its commitment to advancing environmental and fisheries programs in line with national efforts to conserve aquatic resources. Officials emphasized that the success of such initiatives underscores the shared responsibility of government and local communities in protecting the oceans and ensuring the sustainability of the country’s fisheries sector./PN
