President Marcos has rallied all newly elected Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (BSK) officials to clean up all roads, canals, markets, and schools as he launched the administration's nationwide clean-up program this year.

Marcos said this in a message for the "National Community Development Day" on Saturday, Jan. 6.

In his message, the President stressed the importance of the "Bayanihan Spirit" to address the issue of pollution and waste management to achieve a healthier and safer environment.

“Inaanyayahan ko kayong lahat na dumalo at sumali sa mga pagkilos, pagtitipon, at pagpapasinaya ng (I invite you all to join in the activities and celebration of the) National Community Development Day,” he said.

While Marcos said that the celebration was not new since three presidents before him had done it, he said it was important for people to mark it since it underscores the timeless ideals that community development desires to achieve.

"Communities where peace and progress reign, where residents take care of themselves and each other, where neighbors in believing that more things unite than divide them work for a future they deserve and dream of," the President said.

Under the Kalinisan sa Bagong Pilipinas program, the Marcos administration aims "to raise awareness and encourage participation among Filipino citizens on environmental responsibility through proper solid waste management."

The program also encourages local government units to invest in programs, projects, and activities on solid waste management and ecological practices. It urges them to create a recognition system for the cleanest local government units.

Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos said the program will be simultaneously held in all barangays nationwide from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Jan. 6.

"Clean-up sites will focus on streets, canals, other waterways, public markets, schools, and public parks," he said.

Aside from rallying local officials, the Marcos administration will also encourage all beneficiaries of Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) and students and teachers in public schools and state universities and colleges to participate in the nationwide program.

All interested volunteers and civil society organizations are encouraged to join the activities.