President Marcos has encouraged Filipinos, especially the youth, to participate in the nationwide coastal cleanup and conservation activities.
Marcos made the call on Monday, Sept. 2, in a video message for the observance of Maritime and Archipelagic Awareness Month (MANA Mo) 2024.
"This year’s celebration of MANA Mo is a clarion call to raise greater consciousness on maritime and archipelagic concerns as well as to engage our people in protecting our maritime interests and resources from various threats," he said.
"As this important occasion also coincides with the observance of Fish Conservation Week, International Coastal Clean-up Day, and National Maritime Day, I encourage everyone, especially our youth to support and to join the countrywide coastal clean-up and conservation activities," he added.
The President stressed that "everything starts from each of us," emphasizing that with everyone working together, the country "will soon harvest the fruits of our hardwork and realize a sustainable and greener future for everyone to enjoy."
In his message, the Chief Executive also underscored that the country is blessed with vast maritime and archipelagic resources, thus the people must preserve and develop these resources.
"Our country is fortunate and blessed with vast maritime and archipelagic resources that can be utilized for the benefit of our people," he said.
"As stewards of this incredible gift, it is incumbent upon us to preserve and develop these resources to their fullest potential," the President added.