CEBU — The city is rallying residents, organizations, and students for a massive environmental effort as the International Coastal Cleanup (ICC) 2026 approaches on September 19. Under the theme "Clean Seas for Resilient Communities," the event invites everyone to join the global movement to protect oceans and shorelines.
A Global Movement, A Local Commitment
The International Coastal Cleanup is one of the world's largest volunteer efforts for marine conservation. The Philippines institutionalized this event through Presidential Proclamation No. 470, designating the third Saturday of September as cleanup day. Lapu-Lapu City actively joins this global initiative each year.
The City Government, through the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO), is spearheading the local effort. They are partnering with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) 7 Central Visayas. The call extends to all public and private agencies, businesses, schools, and individual citizens to register and volunteer.
Strong Leadership and Coordination
Mayor Cindi King Chan and Congressman Junard "Ahong" Chan are providing steadfast leadership for the event. A coordination meeting conducted on September 3 brought together department heads, office heads, and barangay officials. The meeting ensured organized and successful implementation of the city-wide cleanup.
An orientation on proper ICC data recording was also conducted with DENR Region VII for students of Lapu-Lapu City College. This activity equipped participants with the necessary knowledge to accurately document waste collected. Student volunteers will play a vital role in gathering scientific data during the cleanup.
Choosing Your Shoreline
The city-wide cleanup spans 15 designated areas, ensuring comprehensive coverage of both mainland and island communities. Volunteers can choose from mainland barangays like Poblacion, Pajo, and Pusok. They can also opt for resort areas such as Maribago, Agus, and Punta Engaño.
For those willing to travel, Olango Island and its surrounding islets of Caubian, Pangan-an, and Caohagan also serve as deployment sites. This broad selection allows volunteers to support the cleanup effort closest to their homes or communities. It ensures that no shoreline is left behind in the collective effort.
More Than Just Picking Up Trash
The global cleanup goes beyond simple litter collection; it is a crucial data-gathering exercise. Volunteers meticulously document the types and amounts of marine debris they find, from plastics to styrofoam. This citizen-science approach provides invaluable data for researchers and policymakers.
This data helps trace how trash enters waterways and informs strategies to stop pollution at its source. By participating, each volunteer contributes to long-term solutions, not just immediate cleanups. It transforms a day of service into a significant contribution to environmental science.
How to Register and Make a Difference
Interested groups and individuals must register online through the official form provided by the city. The process is straightforward, allowing volunteers to specify their preferred cleanup area. Groups can also officially request a Certificate of Participation upon registration.
This certificate is particularly useful for students needing community service credits or businesses documenting corporate social responsibility hours. The city encourages everyone to bring their teams, friends, and families. The goal is to unite the community in the shared mission of making shorelines cleaner and healthier.
A Stronger, Safer Future
By joining the International Coastal Cleanup, Lapu-Lapu City residents demonstrate a commitment to environmental stewardship. The theme "Clean Seas for Resilient Communities" highlights the direct link between a healthy environment and a strong community. Protecting the coastline is protecting the city's future.
