ZAMBOANGA CITY — In a powerful display of community spirit and environmental stewardship, 925 volunteers gathered along R.T. Lim Boulevard on Saturday, June 7, 2026, for a large-scale Coastal Cleanup Drive led by SM City Mindpro and SM City Zamboanga in celebration of World Oceans Day.
The initiative, conducted in partnership with the City Government of Zamboanga and the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) – Zamboanga City, brought together an impressive coalition of government offices, educational institutions, civic groups, uniformed personnel, and private organizations — all united by a shared commitment to protecting the city’s coastal ecosystem.
Nearly a Ton of Waste Collected
By the end of the day, volunteers had collected a staggering 988.5 kilograms of waste from the shoreline. Plastic waste, discarded packaging materials, bottles, fishing debris, and other pollutants that threaten marine biodiversity and coastal communities were carefully gathered and segregated across designated cleanup zones.
The event began with a brief orientation emphasizing proper waste segregation, volunteer safety, and the importance of protecting marine environments. Participants then fanned out across the coastline, working hand in hand to restore the natural beauty of Zamboanga’s shores.
“This initiative reflects the bayanihan spirit that unites our communities in caring for the environment,” said Aileen Ann Villa-Enriquez. “By working together, we not only clean our coastlines but also raise awareness about the critical role each individual plays in protecting our oceans for future generations.”
Part of the SM Green Movement
The Coastal Cleanup Drive forms part of the SM Green Movement, SM Supermalls’ long-term sustainability platform that encourages environmental responsibility through programs focused on waste management, climate action, resource conservation, and community engagement.
SM City Mindpro and SM City Zamboanga, together with their partners, reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding coastal resources and advancing sustainable practices that contribute to the well-being of present and future generations.
The successful turnout highlights the growing environmental consciousness among Zamboangueños and sets a strong precedent for future community-driven conservation efforts across the city. With marine pollution continuing to threaten coastal communities nationwide, initiatives like this serve as a vital reminder that collective action can make a tangible difference.
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