By PIA-Bohol | 06:34 AM June 08, 2025
Members of the Association of United Development Information Officers (Audio) in Bohol conducted coastal and underwater clean-up at Balicasag Island in the Municipality of Panglao on May 30.
Hosted by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), in partnership with the Philippine Information Agency (PIA), the activity brought together information officers from national government agencies and local government units to advocate for the conservation and sustainable management of the country’s coastal and marine resources.
“Ang atong panagtigom karon dili lang usa ka kalihokan, kini usa ka pasalig. Pasalig nga magtinabangay kita sa pagpanalipod sa atong kinaiyahan, sa pagpadayag sa importansya sa limpyo ug luwas nga kadagatan, ug sa pagpakita nga ang panaghiusa ug pagbati sa serbisyo publiko mao ang yawe sa kausaban,” said Coast Guard Station Western Bohol commander Lt. JG Romulo Balonga Jr.
[Our gathering today is not just an event; it is a commitment. A commitment that we will work together to protect our environment, to highlight the importance of clean and safe oceans, and to demonstrate that unity and a sense of public service are the keys to change.]
During the clean-up event, 22 sacks of trash were collected, including a significant number of plastic items.
The debris included grocery bags, beverage bottles, cans, caps, cigarette butts, straws, utensils, food wrappers, Styrofoam, lids, fishing nets, and various other debris.
“It was a great experience, and it greatly made an impact to maintain the cleanliness to sustain the eco system of Balicasag Island,” shared Fire Officer 1 Gian Paolo Dolotina, information officer of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP).
Leah Grace Largo, information officer of the Municipality of Alburquerque, shared that the clean-up activity highlights the ongoing need for responsible tourism and consistent environmental protection to preserve the island’s natural beauty.
Following the clean-up, a Basic Life Support–Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (BLS–CPR) Training was conducted by the PCG, in partnership with the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) of Dimiao.
The participants received both theoretical input and hands-on training, equipping them with essential life-saving skills.
The event was also supported by volunteers from Travel 29, Marios Dive Resort, Eco Dive, Mosoy Boat Rental, Sapphire Boat Rental Services, Haka Dive Center, Poseidon Water Sports, Diamond Water Sports, some members of Panglao Association of Dive Operators, 203rd Squadron headed by commander Ivy Kung PCGA, Bohol Woo with TUSGA Free divers, among others. (ECB/PIA7-Bohol)
