In celebration of World Environment Day, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) spearheaded a region-wide “plogging” activity across Zamboanga Peninsula that not only promoted environmental awareness but also made a measurable impact in the fight against plastic pollution in the Philippines.
Plogging, a term that combines the Swedish word “plocka upp” (to pick up) and jogging, encourages individuals to collect litter, primarily plastic waste, while walking or running. This eco-friendly fitness movement brought together over 1,000 participants from various government agencies, private sector partners, and community volunteers across 10 sites, spanning a total of 26.18 kilometers.
The result was the collection of nearly 2,000 kilograms of plastic waste—an impressive outcome that not only showcased the enthusiasm of the participants but also highlighted the growing public awareness around environmental issues.
Lawyer Abbas Lao, regional director of the Environmental Management Bureau, emphasized the importance of sustainability: “What we have collected here should be processed into another usable product. We have to promote the recycling of our plastics.”
This grassroots action comes at a critical time. The Philippines has consistently ranked among the top contributors to ocean plastic pollution. According to a 2022 report by Oxford University’s Our World in Data, the Philippines was the largest contributor to plastic waste that ends up in the ocean, accounting for over one-third of global oceanic plastic waste through its river systems. The Pasig River alone has been identified as the world’s most polluting river for plastics.
The plogging event, themed “Ending Global Plastic Pollution,” represents a small but meaningful step in addressing this global crisis. Government workers, including those from the Land Transportation Office and the Philippine Coast Guard, found renewed purpose in their participation. “We had fun… and we loved the view! We also got to help Mother Nature by picking up trash,” shared Amari Tambang of the LTO.
Lieutenant Junior Grade Michael P. Divino of the Philippine Coast Guard emphasized personal accountability, saying, “What’s even better, especially for those who visit places like this, is to take back the same trash they brought with them.”
The DENR initiative not only gathered waste but also planted the seeds for a culture of environmental stewardship—one that combines health, civic responsibility, and sustainability. Supported by institutions such as the Universidad de Zamboanga and agencies like DOH, TESDA, BFP, and the Philippine Information Agency, the event exemplified how multi-sectoral collaboration can drive positive change.
As the Philippines continues to grapple with its plastic waste challenge, initiatives like plogging offer a scalable and inclusive way to engage citizens in meaningful environmental action. Through collective effort and increased awareness, a cleaner, more resilient Philippines is not just possible—it’s already in progress.
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