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Beyond Banking: CitySavings’ Pledge to Coastal Conservation and Green Growth
City Savings Bank (CitySavings), the thrift arm of Union Bank of the Philippines (UnionBank), integrates a sustainability-driven approach in its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives by spearheading a number of programs to close out the year. These include Coastal Clean-up drives as well as Mangrove and Tree Planting activities focused on the conservation of coastal […].....»»
Sustainable Snacking: Mondelez Philippines Hosts 1st Coastal Clean-up Activity
LEADING snacking company Mondelez Philippines held its first-ever coastal clean-up volunteer program at the picturesque Las Pinas-Parañaque Wetland Park as part of its commitment to sustainability. In partnership with the social business HOPE Philippines, the initiative is a part of the company’s efforts to support the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Law and promoting environmental consciousness by helping minimize ….....»»
Care in the neighborhood
Aboitiz Land led a coastal cleanup at Seafront Residences earlier this month to underscore its unwavering commitment to marine-life conservation. The initiative aimed to not only clean the coastline but also to gather valuable information for future efforts. This data will contribute to a more targeted and sustainable approach in the conservation of marine life. Capacity development programs and information, education, and communication activities were also implemented to promote environmental responsibility among participants. The event brought together a diverse group, including members from partnering organizations, Seafront Residences homeowners, and key institutions like the Philippine National Police, Bureau of Fire Protection, Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine Coast Guard auxiliary, local barangay, Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office, municipal administrator and the Department of Education. Nestled at the core of Seafront Residences lies the Pawikan Nature Reserve, designated as a critical nesting site for endangered pawikans. Upholding the cleanliness of these coastal regions is integral to ensuring the preservation of the pawikans’ natural habitat. Ongoing initiatives, including regular coastal cleanups, are set to continue in the coming years, ensuring the sustained protection of both the pawikans and their coastal habitats. The steadfast dedication of Aboitiz Land at Seafront Residences not only enhances the coastal biodiversity but also sets an inspiring example for coastal communities across the Philippines. This approach highlights Seafront Residences’ significant role in coastal cleanup and the protection of endangered pawikans, reflecting Aboitiz Land’s commitment to environmental sustainability and care for both human and marine life. Aboitiz Land’s environmental conservation efforts at Seafront Residences have been recognized with the prestigious Silver Award in the Environmental Category at the FIABCI Philippines Property and Real Estate Excellence Awards 2022. The post Care in the neighborhood appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
ARI in troika to build Visayas wind project
Aboitiz Renewables Inc. or ARI, the renewable energy arm of Aboitiz Power Corp., Singapore-headquartered Vena Energy, and Cebu-based Vivant Energy Corp., have teamed up to develop, build, and operate a 200-megawatt or MW wind project in the Visayas. The project, dubbed as San Isidro Wind Power Project, will be built in San Isidro, a fourth-class coastal municipality in the Province of Northern Samar. It will be undertaken by the joint venture company that the parties formed called Lihangin Wind Energy Corp. Construction starts Q4 2023 As disclosed in the separate stock reports of ARI and Vivant Energy on Wednesday, which are both publicly listed companies, the wind plant will begin construction within the last quarter of the year. It is scheduled to be completed by early 2025. “We are excited to partner with Vena Energy and Vivant Energy so that together, we can contribute to the Philippines’ clean energy aspirations. This undertaking demonstrates ARI’s progress in growing its renewable energy capacity to 4,600 MW,” ARI president and chief operating officer James Arnold Villaroman. “Each of these investments is an important step to achieving a 50:50 balance in our renewable and thermal portfolios. We are very excited about these opportunities to contribute to the country’s energy transition journey,” he added. Meanwhile, Emil Andre Garcia, president and COO of Vivant Energy, reiterated that their undertaking will “bring us closer to the goal to expand our RE portfolio to 30 percent by 2030.” “We welcome this opportunity to partner with two leaders in renewable energy development who share our vision of helping the country attain energy security while promoting renewable energy and contributing to countrywide development,” Garcia said. Most diversified AboitizPower presently has the largest and most diversified local renewable energy platform in terms of installed capacity under its operational control. Currently, close to 1,000 MW of renewable energy projects — including wind and solar farms and more geothermal capacities — are in its pipeline. The post ARI in troika to build Visayas wind project appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Famed environmental warrior graces RC Manila assembly
The Rotary Club of Manila had a brilliant, unique guest speaker at its last weekly members’ meeting at the Manila Polo Club — the famed, internationally acclaimed author, lawyer, environmental activist, and recipient, in 2009, of what is regarded as the Nobel Prize of Asia, the Ramon Magsaysay Award (non-category), Antonio Oposa Jr. For about an hour and a half last Thursday, 21 September 2023, RC Manila members, officers and guests at the MPC’s Turf Room alternately stood up to sing along and listen to Oposa’s telling of “good stories,” his way, he said, of promoting and creating awareness for his advocacies and his passion for the environment. Oposa earned a law degree from the University of the Philippines College of Law. For a short time, he worked in a law firm, until he realized that his heart was not in the practice of law but rather with nature and the environment. He traveled to Norway and enrolled in a course on energy and the environment at the University of Oslo’s summer program and afterwards, to Boston, where he pursued and later obtained his LLM at the Harvard Law School in 1997. [caption id="attachment_188497" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Valiant environmental warrior Antonio Oposa: ‘My biggest achievement is that I have turned some of my adversaries into co-advocates. And what could be more inspiring now than to see their own children out there, protecting the sea?’[/caption] In 1993, Oposa made global headlines for the landmark case, Minors Oposa v Factoran where the Supreme Court ruled that the 43 children counseled by Oposa, who filed legal action against the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, seeking cancellation by the agency of existing timber license agreements and stopping the issuance of new ones, ruled in favor of the plaintiffs. “The case was brought to court amid the government’s then granting over 90 logging companies permits to cut down nearly four million hectares of old-growth forest when only 850,000 hectares remained. And forests were being logged at a rate of some 200,000 hectares per year! I told the Court how my son, only three at that time, would no longer see these forests by the time he was 10. I couldn’t help thinking, that if this wasn’t stopped not a single old-growth forest would remain for him and future generations to enjoy,” Oposa said. The case had initially been dismissed in trial court on the ground that there was no legal personality to sue. Oposa elevated the case to the Supreme Court, and in a much-hailed case of intergenerational responsibility, the Supreme Court upheld the legal standing and right of the children to initiate action on their behalf and on behalf of generations yet unborn. What was so remarkable about the case is that Oposa sued on behalf of generations yet unborn and today that milestone case is known in Philippine and global jurisprudence as the “Oposa Doctrine.” For its part, the Philippine Supreme Court, too, carved a permanent niche for itself in environmental law with its promulgation of Oposa v Factoran. It secured its place in history, earning praises from the international environmental community and a reputation as a champion of the right to a healthy environment. Oposa also recounted at this talk at the RC Manila meeting last Thursday another epic landmark case involving the legal tussle he waged against 11 government agencies for the cleaning up of severely polluted Manila Bay. In December 2008, a decade after he filed that case, the Supreme Court issued a decision in his favor. In a continuing mandamus ruling, the Supreme Court ordered all defendant agencies to implement a time-bound action plan that would clean up Manila Bay and to give the Court a progress report on the matter every three months. Oposa talked about the Island Sea Camp he organized in 2001 in Bantayan Island where he gave children lessons on coral reefs, snorkeling and sustainable practices. In 2003, 2004, while holding weekend training camps for children in the Sea Camp “we noticed the rampant illegal fishing going on. Dynamite fishing and commercial fishing intrusions into prohibited coastal zones went unchecked. Something had to be done,” related Oposa. Thus, was born the Visayan Sea Squadron. “I organized a strike team with crack enforcers from the National Bureau of Investigation, Navy, fishermen, sea watch volunteers, lawyers, law students and even a few foreigners. The target was not small fishermen but crime syndicates and operators behind the sale of blasting caps and dynamite powder. Seizures and raids followed,” he said. Operations were so effective that word went out that his friend Jojo de la Victoria, the fearless Cebu City Bantay Dagat (Sea Watch) chief, and Oposa were targets of assassination. A local newspaper interviewed De la Victoria, revealing an intelligence report about illegal fishing operators putting up a P1-million bounty for him and Oposa. In 12 April 2006, 48 hours after he was interviewed, De la Victoria was felled by a hired gunman outside his house in Cebu City. “Jojo’s life was not in vain. After his funeral, a core team met for dinner to regroup. The tide of illegal fishing started to turn. Exploits of the Visayan Sea Squadron — and the courage and synergy of the men and women who made it happen — became known far and wide,” Oposa said. He continued, “Four years after Jojo died, Visayan Sea Squadron co-founder Alfredo Marañon was elected governor of Negros Occidental province. He gathered the other governors in the region to begin a restorative plan for the Visayan Sea which encompasses an area of over a million hectares. The governors passed a landmark joint resolution declaring the entire Visayan Sea a marine reserve.” For his valiant work as an environmental warrior, Oposa has been the recipient of many award in recognition of his valiant work as an environmental warrior. Aside from receiving the Ramon Magsaysay Award in 2009, he was given the equally prestigious Center for International Environmental Law Award in 2008. Earlier, in 1997, he was conferred the United Nations Environment Programme Global 500 Roll of Honor, the highest UN honor in the field of the environment. Asked if there was anything about his attainments that gives him the most satisfaction, Oposa said, “My biggest achievement is not that I caught this violator and that violator when we were busy with our Visayan Sea Squadron operations; it is that I have turned my adversaries into co-advocates. Some of those who had opposed me are now supporting me in my advocacies. And what could be more inspiring than to see their own children helping us out there, protecting the sea?” The post Famed environmental warrior graces RC Manila assembly appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Aboitiz group leads coastal protection bid
The Aboitiz Foundation, Aboitiz Land, and the Communities Organized for Resource Allocation, or CORA, Foundation signed a memorandum of agreement on 13 September to further reinforce their commitment to protecting coastal ecosystems to ensure a cleaner, more sustainable future. The signatories include Aboitiz Foundation president and COO Maribeth Marasigan, Aboitiz Land senior AVP of Legal and Corporate Affairs Atty. Misch Sta. Ana, and Cora Foundation founder and executive director Antoinette Taus. The partnership’s core objective is to unify the strengths and resources of Aboitiz Land, Aboitiz Foundation and Cora Foundation in implementing the “Coastal Clean Up 2.0” in Calubcub II, San Juan, Batangas, the host community of Aboitiz Land’s Seafront Residences. Ramping up ecology protection The Coastal Clean Up 2.0 includes the implementation of capacity development initiatives, as well as the information, education, and communication activities, focused on environmental protection. These efforts target not only the local host communities but also the other stakeholders, too. “With the enduring support of Aboitiz Foundation and CORA Foundation, we are excited to embark on the Coastal Clean Up 2.0 initiative at Seafront Residences. Our strides are bolstered by the expertise of CORA, an organization celebrated for efforts in coastal conservation,” Sta. Ana said. CORA Foundation is a non-profit organization committed to forging sustainable initiatives aimed at addressing pressing global issues including hunger, poverty, inequality and climate change. With a core emphasis on volunteerism, community involvement, and inclusiveness, CORA’s initiatives prioritize the empowerment of marginalized groups, educational institutions, women, and the younger generation. “Nothing can be done without partnerships and collaborations. So to us at CORA, we really feel that this journey is meant to be, and we hope that through this coastal cleanup, it will create the spark or the ripple effect towards so much more,” Taus, a movie artist, said. Meanwhile, Aboitiz Foundation president and COO Maribeth Marasigan emphasized the importance of caring for the environment and how our present actions have a direct impact on our future. The Aboitiz Foundation has been in partnership with the CORA Foundation since 2018, jointly driving the Clean Seas Pilipinas initiative, which focuses on sustainable waste management solutions. The post Aboitiz group leads coastal protection bid appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Hundreds join BFAR cleanup drive
The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources reported over the weekend that around 500 individuals joined the cleanup drive in Barangay Tanza Uno, Navotas City to mark this year’s observance of International Coastal Cleanup. BFAR National Director Demosthenes Escoto said that this year’s theme: “Clean Seas for Healthy Fisheries,” reflects the agency’s appeal for the public to cooperate in maintaining waste-free bodies of water to ensure a thriving fisheries industry, “All bodies of water are connected, so I hope we can work together for a clean and abundant ocean. I am optimistic that by working together, we can ensure that our oceans and coastal regions continue to be a source of life, inspiration, and prosperity for all,” Escoto said. He led BFAR’s central and National Capital Region offices and stakeholders from New Era High School, Asian Social Institute and Lingkod Tao-Kalikasan in the activity, held at the Marine Tree Park in Navotas. The cleanup, held concurrently with other activities worldwide as part of the celebration, was supported by the local government of Navotas City, the Department of the Interior and Local Government - NCR, and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority-Navotas. Escoto noted that the protection of natural resources is a “matter of utmost urgency and global significance,” underscoring the importance of oceans, seas, rivers, and coastal areas for the livelihoods of Filipino fisher folk. “The livelihood of millions of our countrymen depends on our ocean. So it’s fair to say that when the ocean is clean, fishing is plentiful, and livelihoods are stable,” he said. Escoto also highlighted their commitment to ocean conservation and protection, with partner institutions expressing their support for the agency’s programs, particularly those related to coastal resource management. These include the implementation of the “Malinis at Masaganang Karagatan: The National Search for Outstanding Coastal Communities,” which incentivizes local government units demonstrating exemplary sustainable fisheries development efforts. The BFAR has also launched the “Balik Sigla sa Ilog at Lawa” or BASIL program, wherein they rehabilitate minor lakes and reservoirs located in upland and landlocked areas to restore their ecological health and bolster the populations of native and endemic fish species. The post Hundreds join BFAR cleanup drive appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Playing dolphins grace Palawan coastal cleanup
PUERTO PRINCESA CITY — A pod of seven dolphins was witnessed playing in the waters of El Nido, Palawan, on Saturday during International Coastal Cleanup Day. Their unexpected sighting at the El Nido Managed Resource Protected Area of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources left spectators and environmental enthusiasts surprised, raising hopes for the health and preservation of the marine habitat in the municipality. The ENMRPA team, along with the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office staff and volunteer divers, set out on a journey on 16 September to clean up the island sites of El Nido. Little did they know that the day would be marked by an encounter with marine mammals. Despite the initial excitement, the precise identification of the dolphins remained under investigation. Mildred Suza, the park operations superintendent of ENMRPA, expressed enthusiasm over the dolphin sighting, saying their presence in the protected area is an indicator of a healthy marine environment. “The presence of these marine mammals is a sign that their habitat is healthy and intact. Hence, there’s a need for further research to identify and determine the population of marine wildlife,” she said. Dolphins are considered an indicator species for the health of marine ecosystems. Their presence is associated with well-preserved habitats, making the sighting significant for conservationists and environmentalists who work to protect El Nido’s natural beauty. The environment department in Mimaropa said this occurrence is particularly timely, aligning with the ongoing global efforts led by ICC to safeguard marine ecosystems. ICC, launched in 1986 by The Ocean Conservancy, serves as a platform to unite communities in the collection and documentation of coastal litter. In the Philippines, Proclamation 470, issued in 2003, designates the third Saturday of September as ICC Day, reminding Filipinos to rid the oceans of waste and debris. The post Playing dolphins grace Palawan coastal cleanup appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
150 nations hold coastal cleanup
Thousands of volunteers from over 150 countries joined the International Coastal Cleanup Day, a global initiative dedicated to addressing ocean pollution through beach and waterway cleanups held every third Saturday of September. On its 37th year, the Philippines has been participating in the ICC since 1994. In 2003, Proclamation 470 officially designated the third Saturday in September as ICC Day, instilling a sense of vigilance among Filipinos in supporting the ongoing global fight against marine litter. The theme “Clean Seas for Healthy Fisheries” is carried out by this year’s ICC, which aligns closely with the objectives of the United Nations Ocean Decade Challenge 3, which is to “Sustainably Feed the Global Population.” This challenge recognizes the need to ensure sustainable food production from the ocean to feed the growing global population while safeguarding the health and productivity of marine ecosystems. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources, in partnership with numerous organizations, took the lead in coordinating cleanups in various water bodies across the country. An estimated 35,000 volunteers armed with sacks, rakes, and gloves joined forces for the cleanup effort nationwide. The post 150 nations hold coastal cleanup appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
BFAR joins coastal cleanup in Navotas
The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources reported that around 500 individuals joined the cleanup drive in Barangay Tanza Uno, Navotas City to mark this year's observance of International Coastal Cleanup. BFAR National Director Demosthenes Escoto said that this year’s theme: “Clean Seas for Healthy Fisheries,” reflects the agency’s appeal for the public to cooperate in maintaining waste-free bodies of water to ensure a thriving fisheries industry, "All bodies of water are connected, so I hope we can work together for a clean and abundant ocean. I am optimistic that by working together, we can ensure that our oceans and coastal regions continue to be a source of life, inspiration, and prosperity for all," Escoto said. He led BFAR’s central and National Capital Region offices and stakeholders from New Era High School, Asian Social Institute, and Lingkod Tao-Kalikasan in the activity, held at the Marine Tree Park in Navotas. The cleanup, held concurrently with other activities worldwide as part of the celebration, was supported by the local government of Navotas City, the Department of the Interior and Local Government - NCR, and the Metro Manila Development Authority - Navotas. Escoto noted that the protection of natural resources is a “matter of utmost urgency and global significance,” underscoring the importance of oceans, seas, rivers, and coastal areas for the livelihoods of Filipino fisher folk. “The livelihood of millions of our countrymen depends on our ocean. So it's fair to say that when the ocean is clean, fishing is plentiful, and livelihoods are stable," he said. Escoto also highlighted their commitment to ocean conservation and protection, with partner institutions expressing their support for the agency's programs, particularly those related to coastal resource management. These include the implementation of the “Malinis at Masaganang Karagatan: The National Search for Outstanding Coastal Communities,” which incentivizes local government units to demonstrate exemplary sustainable fisheries development efforts. The BFAR has also launched the “Balik Sigla sa Ilog at Lawa” or BASIL program, wherein they rehabilitate minor lakes and reservoirs located in upland and landlocked areas to restore their ecological health and bolster the populations of native and endemic fish species. The Department of Agriculture - Bureau of Plant Industry on the other hand, together with various public and private organizations, also participated in the International Coastal Cleanup Day 2023 at the SM by the Bay Mall of Asia in Pasay City. In a social media post on Saturday, the DA-BPI said that equipped with gloves, sacks, and tongs, their volunteers eagerly picked up debris littering the coastal area, such as pet bottles, discarded clothing, torn cardboard boxes, plastics, and other waste items washed ashore. The annual event focuses not only on collecting trash washed ashore but also on raising awareness of the negative impacts of water pollution on marine life. The ICC is a global initiative to maintain and safeguard coastal ecosystems. The yearly event unifies individuals, communities, and organizations from different countries to work together to clean up and restore the coastal environments. The post BFAR joins coastal cleanup in Navotas appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Phl joins anew the global effort to protect oceans
Thousands of volunteers in over 150 countries, joined the International Coastal Cleanup (ICC) Day, a global initiative dedicated to addressing ocean pollution through beach and waterway cleanups held every third Saturday of September. Now in its 37th year, the Philippines has been participating in the ICC since 1994. In 2003, Proclamation No. 470 officially designated the third Saturday in September as ICC Day, instilling a sense of vigilance among Filipinos in their support of the ongoing global fight against marine litter. The theme "Clean Seas for Healthy Fisheries" is carried out by this year’s ICC which aligns closely with the objectives of the United Nations (UN) Ocean Decade Challenge 3 which is to “Sustainably Feed the Global Population”. This challenge recognizes the need to ensure sustainable food production from the ocean to feed the growing global population while safeguarding the health and productivity of marine ecosystems. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources in partnership with numerous organizations, took the lead in coordinating cleanups in various water bodies across the country. An estimated 35,000 volunteers armed with sacks, rakes, and gloves joined forces for the cleanup effort across the country. Participants included individuals and groups from the DENR workforce, national and local government agencies, academia, the private sector, youth organizations, civic groups, and civil society. Concurrent coastal cleanups led by various DENR offices and bureaus were held nationwide including key areas such as the Las Piñas-Parañaque Wetland Park; the Tullahan River along Barangay San Bartolome in Novaliches, Quezon City; Baseco Beach in Manila; the Balanga Wetland and Nature Park in Bataan; Barangay Butong Taal in Batangas; the Mactan Channel in Lapu-Lapu, Cebu; the Abatan River and Panglao in Bohol; Banica River in Dumaguete; Bais City, Negros Oriental; and along the shore of Pagadian Bay in Zamboanga Del Sur. The DENR regional and field offices also partnered with SM Supermalls, through its corporate social responsibility arm, SM Cares, together with SM Prime Holdings, Inc., in organizing clean-up drives in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Fifteen SM Malls were designated as a base that enabled volunteers, including SM employees, to actively participate in the cleanup drive. Likewise, regional offices of the Department have collaborated with UNTV offices across the country under the latter’s advocacy campaign Ocean Care Initiative. Beyond waste retrieval, ICC volunteers documented the volume of waste collected which will be submitted to Ocean Conservancy and UN Ocean Decade to contribute to global efforts to combat plastic pollution. During the 2022 ICC, findings of the Global Ocean Trash Index conducted by Washington, D.C.-based environmentalist advocacy group Ocean Conservancy showed that the Philippines collected 249.382 metric tons of waste. The collected waste encompassed a spectrum of items, including cigarette butts, beverage bottles, food wrappers, bottle caps, grocery bags, food containers, cups and plates, straws, and stirrers. DENR Secretary Antonia Loyzaga said her department's unwavering commitment to enacting effective solid waste management practices, supports a circular economy wherein all plastics are reused, recycled, repurposed, and responsibly managed. The DENR, she added, in collaboration with organizations, implements a range of programs to address solid waste in cities and municipalities nationwide. This is in support of reinforcing the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Act of 2022 or Republic Act 11898 which mandates enterprises to establish EPR programs for plastic waste reduction, recovery, and diversion. The post Phl joins anew the global effort to protect oceans appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
‘Barangay at Kalinisan Day’ launched Saturday
Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Benhur Abalos on Thursday urged all 42,027 barangays and the public to join the national launching of “Barangay at Kalinisan Day” (BarKaDa) on Saturday, 16 September. Abalos said this is in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.’s call for bayanihan. BarKaDa is a nationwide community-based clean-up drive program, geared to maintain and provide a healthy and safe environment and prevent the spread of diseases through proper solid waste management. Simultaneous BarKaDa activities will be held in 29 esteros and creeks in the Cities of Manila, Quezon, Caloocan, Pasig, Las Piñas, Mandaluyong, San Juan, and Pasay. In Memorandum Circular 2023-133, Abalos urged barangays to pass an ordinance or resolution declaring one day of the week as BarKaDa, preferably every Saturday. During BarKaDa, barangays are expected to conduct coastal clean-up, dredge clogged waterways, prune thick bushes or branches, and dismantle breeding places of mosquitoes in coastal areas, waterways, creeks, public parks, roads, and other public spaces within their areas. The post ‘Barangay at Kalinisan Day’ launched Saturday appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DILG’s ‘Barangay at Kalinisan Day’ to be launched in NCR
Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Benhur Abaloso on Thursday urged all 42,027 barangays and the public to join the national launching of “Barangay at Kalinisan Day” (BarKaDa) on Saturday, 16 September 2023. Abalos said this is in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.’s call for bayanihan. “Halina’t makiisa, halina’t maki-BarKaDa sa Sabado, September 16. Magtulong-tulong tayong linisin ang ating mga pamayanan para sa mas maayos at ligtas na kapaligiran,” Abalos said. BarKaDa is a nationwide community-based clean-up drive program, geared to maintain and provide a healthy and safe environment and prevent the spread of diseases through proper solid waste management. Simultaneous BarKaDa activities will be held in 29 esteros and creeks in the cities of Manila, Quezon , Caloocan, Pasig, Las Piñas, Mandaluyong, San Juan, and Pasay. In Memorandum Circular 2023-133, Abalos urged barangays to pass an ordinance or resolution declaring one day of the week as BarKaDa, preferably every Saturday. During BarKaDa, barangays are expected to conduct coastal clean-up, dredge clogged waterways, prune thick bushes or branches, and dismantle breeding places of mosquitoes in coastal areas, waterways, creeks, public parks, roads, and other public spaces within their areas. DENR coastal clean-up Also on Saturday (16 September), the Department of Environment and Natural Resources will conduct a separate cleanup activity in various sites in coastal areas in Metro Manila. The coastal cleanup day is in line with Presidential Proclamation No. 470 Series of 2003 declaring every 3rd Saturday of September as International Coastal Cleanup Day in observance of the Global Coastal Cleanup celebration. With a theme: "Clean Season for Healthy Fisheries" in harmony with the United Nations Decade of Oceans Science for Sustainable Development - Ocean Decade Challenge 3, which aims to Sustainably Feed the Global Population. The sites fro the cleanup include the SM by the Bay in Pasay, Wetland Park in Las Piñas and Parañaque, Tanza Marine Tree Park and Barangay Tongos in Navotas, Tullahan River in Barangay San Bartolome in Quezon City, Pasig River in Lawton Ferry Station and Baseco Beach in Manila, H2O Hotel in Ocean Park also in Manila, and at the back of Solaire Hotel in Parañaque City. The center of activity will be held in Balanga City Wetland and Nature Park in Bataan. The post DILG’s ‘Barangay at Kalinisan Day’ to be launched in NCR appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Flooding not caused by reclamation — expert
Waterways and drainage systems clogged with debris and garbage are to blame for flooding in Metro Manila, and not reclamation, an environmental impact expert said over the weekend. Dr. Ed Alabastro explained that the problem of flooding in the metropolis has been going on for a long time, way before the start of reclamation projects at Manila Bay. “The root cause of this problem is our clogged drainages and waterways. Water cannot flow freely through these channels because they are obstructed by garbage and other plastic materials,” said Alabastro, chairperson of the Air and Waste Management Association. He also debunked other assertions by critics of the reclamation projects that they cause land subsidence, tsunamis, and a rise in the sea level. “Land subsidence is not due to reclamation at sea but to the over-extraction of deep well water,” Alabastro said, referring to the gradual or sudden sinking of the ground due to displacement of subsurface earth materials. Rising sea levels A two-year study commissioned by the National Economic and Development Authority has warned that by 2040, around 12 million people are likely to be exposed to flooding in the National Capital Region due to rising sea levels and subsidence. The study conducted by foreign and local experts laid down a Manila Bay Sustainable Development Master Plan to stem the ill effects of flooding. “At present, minimizing dependency on groundwater is a challenge, resulting in a decrease in sources of safe, clean water and continuous and faster land sinking,” it said. It pushed for the reduction of groundwater extraction as it urged local government units and the Department of Public Works and Highways to look for alternative sources of water. Alabastro also stemmed concerns about tsunamis arising from rising sea levels, saying their occurrence has nothing to do with reclamation. On the contrary, reclamation projects can even protect against storm surges if they include the construction of coastal structural defense systems like seawalls and wave deflectors, he said. Instead of worsening the effects of tsunamis, reclamation of coastal structures could even reduce their intensity, added the vice chairperson of the environmental committee of the Federation of Philippine Industries. Under review Reclamation projects in Manila Bay had been put under review by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to determine their compliance with environmental laws. The review was ordered by Mr. Marcos after concerns were raised against the projects, including the loss of marine life, the destruction of mangrove forests, and the alleged potential for flooding. Critics have pointed out that Manila Bay is already facing several environmental problems, including pollution, siltation, and mangrove deforestation. They have argued that reclamation will only exacerbate these problems and make the bay even more polluted and degraded. Proponents of the Manila Bay reclamation projects, on the other hand, argue that they are necessary to improve the bay’s ecology and promote economic development. The projects will create jobs, attract investment, and help to improve the quality of life for people in the area, they said. The post Flooding not caused by reclamation — expert appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Davao’s volunteer coast guards recycle single-use plastic wastes into hollow blocks
Single-use plastic wastes collected by volunteer coast guards on a weekly coastal clean-up drive were recycled into hollow blocks and paver bricks for Php 13 each......»»
Transfer of oil from decaying tanker begins
The United Nations said on Tuesday it had begun transferring one million barrels of oil from a rusting super-tanker off war-torn Yemen, in a bid to avert a catastrophic spill. “The United Nations has begun an operation to defuse what might be the world’s largest ticking time bomb,” UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said in a statement. “A complex maritime salvage effort is now underway in the Red Sea off the coast of war-torn Yemen to transfer one million barrels of oil from the decaying FSO Safer to a replacement vessel.” The operation began at 10:45 a.m. Yemen time, the statement said. The transfer of 1.14 million barrels of Marib light crude from the 47-year-old FSO Safer to the new vessel is expected to take around three weeks. The UN hopes the $143 million operation will eliminate the risk of an environmental disaster that it estimates would cost $20 billion to clean up. Because of the Safer’s position in the Red Sea, a spill would also cost billions of dollars per day in shipping disruptions through the Bab al-Mandab Strait to the Suez Canal, while devastating coastal fishing communities, ecosystems and lifeline ports. The Safer, a floating storage and offloading facility, has been moored around 50 kilometers from the port of Hodeida since the 1980s. It has not been serviced since war broke out eight years ago between Yemen’s Huthi rebels, who control the capital Sanaa and the waters where the Safer is positioned, and a Saudi-led coalition backing the internationally recognized government based in the southern Yemeni city of Aden. WITH AFP The post Transfer of oil from decaying tanker begins appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Safer, stronger communities with AboitizPower’s mangrove projects
As communities feel the effects of a warming world, the importance of propagating and protecting mangroves stand out in the efforts to mitigate carbon emissions buildup. While already being able to sequester three to five times more carbon than forest trees, mangroves also do a lot more, serving as a habitat for various species in coastal ecosystems — hence, sustaining the livelihoods of fisherfolk — and as a protector of vulnerable communities against erosion and storm surges. In celebration of the International Day for Conservation of Mangroves, Aboitiz Power Corporation recognizes the tremendous importance of mangroves, as well as the exemplary efforts of its business units and stakeholders in helping conserve and restore mangrove forests in their communities. Quarterly collaborations In Maco, Davao de Oro, AboitizPower subsidiary Therma Marine, Inc. celebrated Philippine Environmental Month last June with another one of its quarterly collaborations with the public sector and civil society organizations in cleaning the coast and planting mangroves within its vicinity. “The first mangrove tree planting and clean-up drive took place in 2019, and since then, it has become a recurring event for TMI,” said TMI safety, health and environment supervisor Chrisyl Garcia. “By organizing these activities on a regular basis, TMI is able to contribute to the restoration of mangrove habitats and the overall well-being of coastal ecosystems.” “By conducting these events, TMI aims to raise awareness about the importance of mangroves and engage community members, volunteers, and employees in hands-on conservation efforts. The initiative has likely fostered a sense of environmental responsibility among participants,” she added. On that single June day, a total of 110 kilograms of residual waste were collected, while 550 mangrove seedlings were planted. Over the years, TMI's mangrove-planting and clean-up drive has consistently gained momentum, with increased participation from volunteers from the Diocese of Maco, the Bureau of Fire Protection, the Philippine National Police, the 1001st Brigade, the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office, the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office and local private company Gas Island Petroleum Corp. “These stakeholders have played a crucial role in leading discussions on how to effectively plant the mangroves. Their expertise and experience have been invaluable in guiding the participants on the proper techniques and methods of planting mangrove saplings. They share their knowledge about the ideal planting locations, appropriate species selection, and necessary care and maintenance practices for the newly planted mangroves,” Garcia said. This collaboration has enhanced the success and impact of TMI's mangrove-planting and clean-up drives, ensuring that the activities are conducted in a well-informed and efficient manner. “Overall, the consistent involvement of volunteers and leaders in discussing mangrove planting techniques underscores the collective effort and shared commitment towards the preservation and restoration of mangrove ecosystems,” said Garcia. [caption id="attachment_162206" align="aligncenter" width="1536"] Volunteers from public, private and civil society organizations work together at TMI, not just in planting mangroves, but also in fostering strong partnerships and creating a platform for knowledge exchange and shared responsibility in mangrove conservation.[/caption] Adopt-a-mangrove Meanwhile, in Mariveles, Bataan, GNPower Mariveles Energy Center Ltd. Co. kickstarted its own efforts in mangrove conservation by signing a memorandum of agreement with development partners for an estimated P7-million “5 Hectares Orani Mangrove Adoption and Protection Project” that is expected to start implementation in September. Under the MOA, GMEC partnered with the provincial government of Bataan, the municipality of Orani, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the Tubo-tubo Fisherfolks Association to improve the existing conditions of the mangrove areas in the allotted five hectares for a period of five years, subject to possible renewal. “Through this initiative, we envision to improve the existing conditions of the mangrove areas in the province of Bataan, starting in the municipality of Orani,” said GMEC associate vice president for community relations Arcel Madrid. “Adopting a mangrove site is vital for coal-fired power plant companies like GMEC because mangrove forests play a significant role in mitigating climate change through carbon sequestration.” “With these efforts, GMEC will also help uplift the lives of our community partner, the Tubo-tubo Fisherfolks Association, by providing a sustainable fishing ground and viable alternative livelihood to improve their socio-economic status,” he added. In the longer run, GMEC looks forward to more mangrove site adoption projects and other corporate social responsibility endeavors that are aligned with local and national development goals. [caption id="attachment_162207" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] Representatives from GMEC, the Provincial Government of Bataan, the Municipality of Orani, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, and the Tubo-tubo Fisherfolks Association sign an MOA on mangrove adoption and protection.[/caption] Coastal stronghold At the coastal area of Punta Dumalag, Davao, the Aboitiz Cleanergy Park stands as a sanctuary, not just of pawikan (turtles) and rare bird species, but also of mangrove biodiversity. “It’s unbelievable how [the] Aboitiz [Foundation] has developed Punta Dumalag Cleanergy Park to what it is today,” said frequent visitor Cyra Quilaneta of Junior Chamber International Davaoeña Daba-Daba. “The highlight for us [in visiting the park] is the education and experience it provides our members and their guests, especially the youth. We get to appreciate the importance of mangroves by seeing its functions personally — trapping [coastal] trashes and [supporting] turtle hatcheries.” The team at AboitizPower distribution unit Davao Light and Power Co., Inc. spearhead the activities at the Cleanergy Park, which include educating students and guests by hosting tours, as well as assisting them with mangrove-planting. “JCI Davaoeña Daba-Daba, together with JCI Davao, is an organization that supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly #14: Life Below Water. By protecting and restoring mangroves, we contribute to overall sustainable development,” Cyra said. To date, 18,138 mangroves have been planted at the Cleanergy Park. However, several natural and man-made factors have rendered its survival rate at only 30 percent. “While [the] Aboitiz Foundation and its partners have made commendable strides in mangrove protection, the task is far from complete. Mangrove protection requires collective effort to be effective. Mangroves face numerous threats, including habitat loss, climate change impacts, pollution, and unsustainable resource extraction,” Cyra explained. “To ensure the long-term viability of mangrove ecosystems, ongoing efforts are necessary. Continuous awareness, education and action of more groups and organizations is crucial.” “Sustainability remains at the core of AboitizPower and our business units have concretized this through their efforts in caring for mangrove ecosystems and the wider environment,” said AboitizPower president and CEO Manny Rubio. “I commend our team members for helping harness the collective efforts of the company, various partners and host communities in bringing us closer to our aspiration of a better and cleaner tomorrow.” The post Safer, stronger communities with AboitizPower’s mangrove projects appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
New Zealand P103-M grant to help UNICEF Phl’s nutrition, clean water program
New Zealand announced its continued partnership with the United Nations Children’s Fund Philippines through a P103-million (NZ$3 million) grant in support of Phase 2 of the Philippines' Covid-19 response, focusing on scaling up climate-resilient and sustainable water infrastructure and nutrition service delivery in the Caraga region. This grant brings Aotearoa New Zealand's total contribution to P189 million (NZ$5.5 million). The signing ceremony took place on 26 June 2023 at the UNICEF Philippines country office in Mandaluyong. The Phase Two initiative aims to enhance health outcomes for vulnerable communities residing in the coastal areas of the Caraga region. Specifically, the grant will enable UNICEF to achieve the following objectives: Climate-resilient WASH services. The project will provide climate-resilient water, sanitation and hygiene services to 89,051 new beneficiaries, including women, men, girls and boys. The focus will be on poor households and indigenous people in the provinces of Surigao and Dinagat who lack access to toilets due to existing vulnerabilities. The project will also offer flexible options for toilet design, accommodating households outside the equity-based criteria. Nutrition services. The program will deliver nutrition services to 70,000 girls and boys from poor households and indigenous peoples in the provinces of Surigao del Norte and Dinagat Islands. Additionally, it will address severe wasting among 420 girls and boys annually. “Addressing climate-resilient and sustainable water infrastructure and nutrition service delivery gaps are ways that the New Zealand International Development Cooperation is focusing on caring for people. This funding demonstrates New Zealand’s commitment to improving access to lifesaving tools so that children and families can protect themselves,” New Zealand Ambassador to the Philippines Peter Kell said. The post New Zealand P103-M grant to help UNICEF Phl’s nutrition, clean water program appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Solar-powered ice plant big boon to fishers, coastal communities
The fisheries industry has been plagued with challenges and the need for sustainable solutions, innovation often emerges as a ray of hope. Such is the case with Sahaya, a groundbreaking solar-powered ice plant that promises to revolutionize fisheries in the country. By providing a reliable and eco-friendly solution to the longstanding challenge of preserving fish freshness, Sahaya is promises to transform the lives of fishermen and uplift coastal communities across the globe. Last 23 June 2023, at Kauswagan, Cagayan de Oro City, AASC Technologies, a thoroughly Filipino agricultural innovation company based in Cagayan de Oro, unveiled its latest product now available for order across coastal regions in the country. Traditionally, ice plants have relied on fossil fuels to power their operations, leading to high operating costs and detrimental environmental impacts. Sahaya’s solar-powered ice plants aim to change that by harnessing the abundant and renewable energy of the sun. With a sleek design that incorporates photovoltaic panels, Sahaya ice plants can generate clean energy, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions and reliance on fossil fuels. Sahaya is made perfect for off-grid coastal communities that rely on fishing for livelihood and sustenance. The post Solar-powered ice plant big boon to fishers, coastal communities appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
How companies are helping DENR ensure an ‘Environment for Life’
On the occasion of the global celebration of World Environment Day, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources held an “Environment for Life” event, led by DENR Secretary Toni Yulo-Loyzaga, that highlighted the department’s two-pronged blueprint for strategic and effective sustainable development and environmental action in the country. The key to these initiatives is to put in place comprehensive, whole-of-government and whole-of-society plans that are coupled with finding strategic partners in the form of LGUs and/or the private sector. Marubeni Philippines, a major integrated trading and investment business conglomerate from Japan; Holcim Philippines, a Swiss-based global building materials and aggregates company; the Razon-led Prime Infrastructure Capital Inc.; SM Supermalls of SMIC; San Miguel Corporation; DMCI Mining Corporation; HOPE/Century Pacific Food Inc.; Makilala Mining Company Inc.; and Basic Environmental Systems and Technologies Inc. shared the stage with the DENR and presented their respective efforts toward coherent, convergent and synergized environmental action. [caption id="attachment_149039" align="aligncenter" width="525"] PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF HOLCIM PHILIPPINES | Holcim Philippines decarbonized its operations and reduced carbon emissions per ton of cement by 7 percent.[/caption] A recurring theme in all the reports from these strategic partners was how their initiatives embodied the DENR mantra regarding natural resources: to protect, rehabilitate, restore and regenerate. And when it came to treating plastic waste, it was about reduce, reuse and recycle. Marubeni highlighted its carbon credit program through reforestation, a joint undertaking of Marubeni, DENR, Dacon Corp. and the University of the Philippines Los Baños. The initial site covers 10,000 hectares in Negros Occidental and aims to restore biodiversity, create employment in local communities and establish a carbon credit program. Holcim Philippines decarbonized its operations and reduced carbon emissions per ton of cement by 7 percent. In partnership with DENR, it will deploy a 100-percent solar powered catamaran, the Circular Explorer, operated by One Earth One Ocean, to clean up coastal areas from plastic waste in Manila Bay. There is a new project in Northern Mindanao to support coral and coastal ecosystems via a “marine bio-active concrete.” Prime Infra has a reforestation project, in partnership with DENR, covering a 1,800-hectare area within the Upper Marikina River Basin Protected Landscape. This project integrates water security and watershed protection with forest carbon and biodiversity management, with the MoU serving as a blueprint for the wider implementation of nature-based solutions programs. SM Supermalls embraces sustainability through initiatives on energy conservation, solid waste reduction and water conservation. Its adoption of green and resilient designs in its buildings promotes disaster mitigation and prevention measures, along with solid waste management. Initiatives such as Trash to Cash Recycling, EV charging stations, regular coastal clean-ups, incentives for bicycle riders and the use of recycled water for cooling systems are all part of the SM Supermalls commitment to environmental action. San Miguel Corporation showcased its dredging and river widening work in rehabilitating the Pasig River and its tributaries, which has been effective in reducing floods and overspill in several strategic localities along the river’s course that has historically been notorious for flooding. SMC partners with DENR, the Department of the Interior and Local Government, Metro Manila Development Authority and concerned LGUs on these initiatives. DMCI Mining shared its work in helping clean up the recent MT Princess Empress tanker accident and the resulting oil spill and expressed its appreciation for the opportunity to play a critical role in the cleanup of coastal areas in Caluya, Antique. Meanwhile, HOPE Foundation/Century Food Inc., a highly developed CSR sustainable program centered on coconut growing for its Vita Coco beverage, has generated livelihood opportunities for several targeted barangays and communities. It also joined the Plastic Exchange Program, which aims to reduce plastic waste and contribute to the implementation of the Extended Producer Responsibility Act. The Makilala Mining Company presentation offered a framework for the future of responsible mining, since the planned equity participation for the Balatoc indigenous community that owns the land can provide a regenerative sustainability model for the mining sector. The women in their senior management team also make Makilala a model of inclusion and diversity. Lastly, BEST highlighted its Trash to Cashback program and how it’s centered on a five-step program of Segregate, Exchange, Redeem, Collect and Recycle. The company’s Balik PET Bottle Program is in partnership with Coca-Cola Far East Limited and the Philippine Association of Stores and Carinderia Owners. The event was an effective showcase for how the DENR is developing new ways of working across several fronts to make the protection, preservation and regeneration of the country’s natural resources part of a comprehensive plan for resource development, to ensure that a sustainable future can be safeguarded for all. The post How companies are helping DENR ensure an ‘Environment for Life’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»