Environment experts recorded a significant decrease in garbage collected from the Manila Bay from 2023 to 2024, which they said, showcased the progress made in reducing marine litter in the area.
Citing the findings based on the 2024 Marine Litter Monitoring Survey Report of the EcoWaste Coalition in partnership with De La Salle University-Dasmariñas (DLSU-D), it said there was 36 percent decrease in the volume of marine litter and a 42 percent reduction in the total weight of collected waste from 2023 to 2024.
The 2024 survey conducted across 10 project sites — Cavite (Silangan, Rosario; Timalan, Naic; Sahud Ulan, Tanza; Capipisa, Tanza; and Julugan, Tanza), National Capital Region (San Dionisio, Paranaque; and Tanza, Navotas), and Bataan (Cabcaben, Mariveles; Agwawan Beach, Brgy. Simsiman, Mariveles; and Bantan, Orion).
“These findings demonstrate the progress we’ve made, but they also highlight the urgent need for stricter waste management practices,” said Wes Lipana, Project Officer, EcoWaste Coalition's Enhancement of Marine Litter Management (EMLM) Project.
“We have made significant strides in reducing litter, but the continuing dominance of plastics in our waste indicates the need for collective action—both from government bodies and the public,” he added.
Based on the study, plastics still represent a significant portion of marine debris, accounting for 91 percent of the total collected waste, with hard and film plastics being the most prevalent forms.
Seasonal data further indicated a 16 percent increase in litter counts during the wet months compared to the dry season, illustrating the ongoing challenges that need to be addressed.
These findings, according to Lipana, provide valuable insights into the current state of marine debris in the region, though the results are limited to the specific areas covered by the survey.
Key actions
The group presented some strategic actions to address the problem.
Among them are the strict enforcement of existing environmental laws, such as RA 9003 (Ecological Solid Waste Management Act) and RA 9275 (Clean Water Act), to ensure accountability at all levels, and the expansion of information campaigns at the barangay level to raise awareness about waste segregation, plastic pollution, and sustainable disposal practices.
The group also recommended the adoption of standardized cleanup methods, as outlined in the Manual for Beach Litter Monitoring Program, to improve data collection and cleanup efficiency; and the development of a comprehensive, integrated marine litter management plan for Manila Bay that will incorporate both government and community efforts.
The Marine Litter Monitoring Survey Report forms part of the broader initiative to enhance marine litter management in Manila Bay, which focuses on comprehensive monitoring, advocacy, and community involvement.
It is part of the Enhancing Marine Litter Management (EMLM) in Manila Bay (2021–2025) project, funded by the Korea International Cooperation Agency Philippines (KOICA) and the Korea Marine Environment Management Corporation through Our Sea of East Asia Network (OSEAN).
Zero Waste Month
As the Zero Waste Month is observed this January, the EcoWaste Coalition calls on all citizens to take part in realizing the proposed solutions, whether through community-based actions or by adopting more sustainable waste management practices in their daily lives.
These, the group said, will be of big help in protecting Manila Bay and other vital coastal ecosystems across the country.
On the part of their group, Lipana said they will further intensify the information, education, and communication (IEC) activities to emphasize the importance of public engagement in the long-term success of the project.
“We have made remarkable progress, but we can’t stop here. It is crucial that everyone — from government agencies to local communities — joins forces to implement the solutions outlined in this report. We need sustained commitment to tackle the marine litter problem and ensure the long-term health of Manila Bay,” Lipana said.