320 firefighters join clean up of tons of trash in Parañaque waterways
By Chito Chavez
Around 320 firefighters =, including Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) officer-in-charge (OIC) Chief Supt. Wilberto Rico Neil A. Kwan Tiu, participated on Wednesday, Aug. 12, in hauling tons of sea trash that covered the Parañaque City water channel during the ongoing clean-up drive.
Kwan Tiu said the BFP's involvement is part of its duty to address environmental concerns in partnership with other agencies.
“"We also need to take care of our surroundings. Keeping waterways clean helps prevent flooding. I am grateful to everyone who came early to this activity,’’ Kwan Tiu pointed out.
Kwan Tiu said the BFP “remains focused on public safety and supporting various initiatives.”
BFP-National Capital Region Director Chief Supt. Roy Roderick P. Aguto along with Metro Manila’s district, city marshals and the Parañaque City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) were part of the clean-up drive.
The stench and sight of a large volume of sea garbage from Manila Bay that scattered along the Parañaque City coastline drew much public concern mainly due to health and flod-related issues.
Pictures of the scene of discarded plastics, tires, clothes, styrofoams with the volume thick enough to blanket the water surface went viral on social media and online forums.
Parañaque City CENRO chief Bernie Amurao admitted being shocked by the situation, explaining that the rainy season coupled by the high tide brought trash from Manila Bay to the city’s waterways.