Central Visayas removes 35 tons of trash in coastal cleanup drive

TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol — Environmental officials removed over 35 tons of trash from coastal zones across Central Visayas during Saturday's cleanup operations, part of the 41st International Coastal Cleanup initiative aimed at addressing marine pollution.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Central Visayas reported the preliminary figures at 4 p.m., as cleanup teams worked across multiple locations throughout the region. The substantial volume of collected debris reflects the ongoing accumulation of waste in coastal ecosystems throughout Central Visayas.

The International Coastal Cleanup, conducted annually across the globe, brings together volunteers and government agencies to remove discarded materials from marine environments. The initiative serves to raise awareness about ocean pollution while simultaneously documenting the types and quantities of waste entering aquatic systems.

Central Visayas, comprising Bohol, Cebu, Siquijor, and Negros Oriental, has faced growing concerns over marine debris in recent years. The region's extensive coastlines and fishing communities remain vulnerable to the impacts of inadequate waste management and ocean pollution.