ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines, 19 September 2026 – Demonstrating its commitment to environmental stewardship and community engagement, SM Cares, through SM City Zamboanga and SM City Mindpro, in partnership with Office of the City Environment and Natural Resources (OCENR), and Community Environment and Natural Resources Office – Zamboanga City (CENRO) successfully conducted the International Coastal Cleanup (ICC) 2026 along R.T. Lim Boulevard on September 19.
The initiative gathered 1,145 volunteers from various local and national government agencies, uniformed personnel, non-government organizations (NGOs), academic institutions, civic groups, private companies, and community members, all united by a common goal of protecting the city's coastal environment and promoting responsible waste management.
Through the collective efforts of the participants, a total of 1,076.4 kilograms of marine litter and waste materials were collected from the coastline, helping prevent debris from reaching the sea and threatening marine ecosystems.
The annual International Coastal Cleanup serves as a global movement that highlights the importance of preserving oceans, shorelines, and waterways while fostering environmental awareness and volunteerism among communities.
“Today's cleanup is a powerful reminder that environmental protection is a shared responsibility. We are grateful to all our partners and volunteers who dedicated their time and energy to this meaningful cause. Through collective action, we can create cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable communities for future generations,” said Engr. Rommel Bellen, Assistant Mall Manager of SM City Mindpro.
The activity showcased the strong collaboration among government agencies, environmental advocates, educational institutions, and the private sector in advancing environmental conservation efforts in Zamboanga City.
As part of SM's ongoing sustainability programs, the coastal cleanup reflects its commitment to creating positive environmental impact through initiatives that encourage community participation, proper waste management, and environmental responsibility.
SM Supermalls in Zamboanga extends its sincere appreciation to all partner organizations, volunteers, and stakeholders whose support contributed to the success of the International Coastal Cleanup and reaffirmed the community's shared commitment to protecting the environment.
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About SM Cares
As the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, SM Cares is focused on enriching the lives of Filipinos through socially-conscious and environmentally-responsible programs meant to Empower Communities into long-lasting, impactful improvement.
