Businessmen join cleanup of shoreline

By Jani Arnaiz
Inquirer Visayas

MAASIN CITY, Philippines—Businessmen joined government officials in collecting garbage that has affected the coral reefs in Padre Burgos town in Southern Leyte on Saturday.

The clean-up drive, held amid heavy rain, was initiated by the Southern Leyte Chamber of Commerce (SLCC). It aimed to create awareness among residents about the importance of proper disposal of their garbage to protect the coral reefs that have provided the town with 30 dive sites.

Robert Castañares, chamber president, said the campaign was also part of the organization’s tourism program.

“We didn’t know how serious it (garbage problem) was until former PNP (Philippine National Police) chief Jesus Verzosa called our attention,” he said. “Verzosa was dismayed because he saw a lot of garbage like plastic bags and bottles in the coral reefs unlike two years ago.”

About 300 sacks of garbage were collected from the shoreline and shallow waters, Castañares said.