HAPI-Cavite organized a coastal clean-up project in Brgy. Julugan 8, Tanza, Cavite last August 11 to promote environmental consciousness and community involvement. With the support of local riders and residents, the initiative aimed to restore the area’s beauty and cleanliness by removing litter from the shoreline. The day’s efforts resulted in the collection of over 40 sacks of waste, including discarded slippers, shoes, plastic bottles, broken glass, diapers, clothing, and even large tree branches. This initiative gave volunteers and community members a meaningful opportunity to work together toward a cleaner, healthier environment.
HAPI annually conducts a coastal cleanup drive to combat pollution, protect marine life, and maintain the natural beauty of local shorelines. This year, HAPI-Cavite took the lead in organizing the initiative. The clean-up was more than just a one-day activity; it was a call to action. HAPI-Cavite hoped to emphasize the importance of responsible waste disposal and inspire residents to actively contribute to the cleanliness of their community.
“Our goal is to show that if others can care for their community, they can too,” said a HAPI volunteer. The organization also encouraged the Local Government Unit (LGU) to further prioritize waste management and environmental preservation in the area, recognizing the value of ongoing collaboration between community members and local officials.
Moreover, the clean-up drive received a warm welcome from the residents of Brgy. Julugan 8. Many appreciated the initiative; they were glad to see their beach clean and free of waste. The amount of litter collected surprised some, further emphasizing the need for continuous community engagement to keep the area clean. For residents, the clean-up reminded them of the positive impact of a litter-free shoreline on their daily lives and the local ecosystem.
After the clean-up, HAPI-Cavite hosted a feeding program that served arroz caldo (rice porridge), biscuits, and candies to around 200 local children and adults aimed to give back to the community in another meaningful way, fostering unity and camaraderie among participants and residents. By combining the environmental initiative with a feeding program, HAPI-Cavite sought to strengthen the community’s connection to its environment and itself.
Organizing the cleanup came with its own set of challenges. The intense heat of the day and the scarcity of larger tools, such as rakes, made gathering the heavy, wet debris more demanding. Additionally, some of the litter was bulky, requiring volunteers to manually break them down for easier disposal. Despite these obstacles, the volunteers’ determination did not waver, and their collective efforts brought about a successful clean-up.
HAPI’s coastal cleanup and feeding program not only addressed environmental concerns but also served as a testament to the power of collective action and compassion. This impactful project is a reminder that community involvement is essential for long-term environmental safekeeping, setting a positive example for future initiatives.
