APYM, KAGAMASA, MENRO, OMA, BLGU, PAMB, SWM-CO, and FO gathered for an online learning session and meeting to talk about solid waste management (SWA) and coastal clean-up for Bohol.
The event was held on Sept. 3, 2021, at Kiddies Restaurant, Ubay, Bohol. The online meeting and learning session was joined by APYM, KAGAMASA, MENRO, OMA, BLGU, PAMB, SWM-CO, and FO. It aims to gather stakeholders’ data and existing programs on SWM and coastal clean-up. The programs will be accomplished by implementing the FISH Visayas Project (AFOS Foundation) and pilot them for proper SWM through coastal clean-up and providing them a skills training, motivating them to dispose of their wastes and make money from it properly. Click here to know more about AFOS Foundation.
Bohol is a tropical natural beauty haven. The island’s coastline is dotted with white sand beaches and gentle coves. It is locally known as a paradise for diving and snorkeling. Whale and dolphin watching tours are popular among both locals and visitors. Bohol’s coastline is one of the primary sources of income in the province through fishing and tourism. Hence, the project is aimed at preserving the coastline and the local’s livelihood.
Meanwhile, the municipality of PCPG is an awardee from MMK Program, which stands as Malinis at Masaganang Karagatan by collecting the wastes from all over the town and buying the plastic bottles, wrappers, and sachets from individuals. By giving the POs skills training, they are able to earn some extra cash from the trash and at the same time help maintain the cleanliness of the town.
On Sept. 18, 772 volunteers from all over Bohol participated in the cleanup drive and 22 LGUs in their respective areas with small teams, including private sectors and organizations. They have formed special bubble groups ensuring everyone’s safety while adhering to health protocols. There were 63 licensed divers among the volunteers for the underwater cleanup on Panglao Island’s Doljo Seas. Volunteers successfully collected and separated a total of 2,159 kilograms of non-biodegradable waste from the coastline and underwater.
Meanwhile, BFAR-7 has also conducted coastal area cleanup in the region from Sept.13-17. Theyincludingand have collected around 772 kilograms of garbage, including clinical gloves, single-use plastics, diapers, plastic containers, face masks, tin cans, polystyrene, worn-out garments, and glass bottles. The children of fishers from Barangay Cogtong in Candijay, Bohol, started their cleanup on Sept. 17 and stated that disposable face masks made up most of the waste they had collected.
The online meet is part of FISH Visaya’s active movement to educate towns that rely on fishing and beach tourism as their sources of livelihood.