A historic clean-up drive reached the South Peak of Mt. Arayat in Pampanga on August 7, 2026. Led by local government and military units including the 70th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army, the rigorous environmental initiative targeted accumulated trash along high-altitude tourist and hiking paths. The activity is part of ongoing efforts to preserve the ecological integrity of the mountain, a prominent landmark and ecological resource in Central Luzon.
A Collaborative Effort for the Environment
The clean-up drive mobilized local volunteers, regional agencies, and troops from the Philippine Army's 70th Infantry Battalion . The initiative was carried out along the San Juan Baño trail, a key access point to South Peak, which sits at approximately 888 to 984 meters above sea level . This is not the first time the 70th Infantry Battalion has participated in environmental efforts in the area, having previously collaborated with DITO Telecommunity in 2024 to plant bamboo seedlings to stabilize landslide-prone areas within the Mt. Arayat Protected Area .
Promoting a "Leave No Trace" Mindset
The primary goal of the clean-up was to remove accumulated non-biodegradable waste from the mountain ridges and promote a "Leave No Trace" mindset among hikers . High tourist traffic often leaves residual plastics and trail waste near elevated ridges like the South Peak and North Peak. The "Leave No Trace" principles emphasize personal responsibility and stewardship, encouraging visitors to minimize their impact by planning ahead, disposing of waste properly, and respecting wildlife . By preserving the natural flora and fauna against degradation, sustained efforts by regional organizations aim to ensure that Mt. Arayat remains a treasured destination for future generations.
