PH, South Korea launch cleanup vessel to boost Manila Bay rehabilitation
Philippine and South Korean officials on Tuesday, June 30, inaugurated the MV Nilad, a 25-meter clean-up vessel that will be deployed to collect floating debris and respond to oil spills in Manila Bay.
Environment Secretary Juan Miguel Cuna, Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez, Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso, Republic of Korea Ambassador Lee Sang-hwa, Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan, and Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) Vice President Lee Yun Young spearheaded the ceremony at Pier 15, South Harbor.
The vessel was donated by the Republic of Korea through KOICA.
Officials said the vessel is expected to significantly improve the country’s capability to collect floating debris and respond to oil spills, key components in ongoing efforts to restore Manila Bay.
The project underscores continued cooperation between the Philippines and South Korea in addressing environmental challenges, particularly marine pollution, while boosting the operational capacity of local authorities.
The MV Nilad will be operated in coordination with relevant government agencies, including the Philippine Coast Guard, as part of broader efforts to sustain cleanup and protection activities in Manila Bay.