In observance of the International Zero Waste Month (IZWM), the Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) successfully conducted the Environment Coastal Clean-Up Drive 2024 on January 19 at the College of Aquatic Science and Applied Technology (CASAT) campus in Currimao, Ilocos Norte. It was the first time the event was included in the line-up of activities for the month-long MMSU Foundation Anniversary celebration.

MMSU President Shirley C. Agrupis conveyed her heartfelt gratitude and support to the volunteers, partners, and stakeholders who contributed to the event's success. In her message, she focused on the importance of collaboration and partnership in achieving environmental goals. She highlighted MMSU’s plans to propose a Joint Resolution with LGU-Currimao to preserve the scenic coastal area.

Prof. Ernesto S. Del Rosario Jr., CASAT Dean, emphasized the ocean's vital role in providing 50-70% of the air we breathe and the need for sustained efforts in environmental protection. Prof. Del Rosario assured the attendees that the event is a testament to a continued partnership towards ecological conservation.

According to Prof. Rommel Pascua, a faculty member of the Department of Marine Biology, the clean-up drive collected a total of 130 sacks of non-biodegradable rubbish, including plastic bottles, plastic cups, cigarette butts, plastic packaging, glass bottles, discarded fishing gear, and garments, diapers, styrofoam, and other assorted plastic wastes. Additionally, 15 sacks contained biodegradable wastes such as washed seaweeds, coconut leaves, and driftwood ashore. 

In addition, a mural painting project will be built along the newly built seawall on the beachfront of MMSU-CASAT to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the coastline while promoting environmental awareness.

This year’s Environment Coastal Clean-Up Drive received support from various partners, agencies, and stakeholders, including the Office of the Congressman Angelo Marcos Barba, the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte (PGIN), and the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Currimao.

Also present at the event are the MMSU Administrative Council Members, faculty, staff, and student leaders from CAS, CASAT, and CAFSD, officials from LGU-Currimao, coastal barangays, Movement Plastic Pollution-Ilocos Norte, Philippine Science High School-Ilocos Region Campus, Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary, and staff from the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office and the Philippine Ports Authority.

The coastal clean-up drive is an annual initiative by the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) and the College of Aquatic Sciences and Applied Technology (CASAT). (MKA_StratCom)