ANTIQUE — A coastal clean-up drive held on March 20 drew strong participation from government agencies, academic institutions, and community groups across the province, reinforcing efforts to protect the environment.
The activity was conducted in line with Provincial Ordinance No. 2015-115, or the “Coastal, Rivers, Creeks, and Waterways Cleanup Ordinance of the Province of Antique.”
A total of 28 provincial, municipal, and national government agencies took part in the initiative, alongside partners from cooperatives and academic institutions, including the University of Antique and St. Anthony’s College.
Barangay Captain Evelio T. Delos Reyes of Barangay 4 expressed gratitude to participants for their support, while Sangguniang Panlalawigan members Ricky Lavega and Fernando Corvera underscored the importance of sustained environmental protection. Lavega cited Barangay Pantalan in San Jose as a consistent site for coastal clean-up efforts, while Corvera emphasized safeguarding the environment as a legacy for future generations.
Environment and Natural Resources (ENR) Officer Ma. Vivian Marfil said the annual activity—held every third Friday of March—has resulted in visible improvements, with reduced waste observed in some areas compared to previous years.
However, she noted that waste management challenges persist, calling for sustained public awareness, discipline, and stricter implementation of programs such as waste segregation, recycling, and reducing plastic use.
Marfil stressed that the clean-up drive should serve as a reminder for residents to maintain cleanliness beyond the annual activity.
“Basura mo, responsibilidad mo,” she emphasized, urging Antiqueños to take ownership of their waste and work together in maintaining clean coastal and waterway areas.
Gov. Paolo Javier also expressed support for the initiative, calling on residents to take collective responsibility in protecting the province’s coastal and water ecosystems.
He emphasized that environmental preservation requires consistent community effort and cooperation./PN
