Staying true to its commitment to environmental stewardship, Honda Foundation, Inc. (HFI) recently joined the observance of International Coastal Cleanup Day. The activity, organized by the Sta. Rosa City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO), was held in Barangay Caingin, Sta. Rosa, Laguna.
The initiative placed the spotlight on protecting marine ecosystems and building awareness of the consequences of environmental neglect. It also highlighted the dangers of inadequate waste management, including habitat destruction and biodiversity loss, which pose significant threats to both marine life and human health. Along the shoreline of Laguna de Bay, the country’s largest freshwater lake, hundreds of volunteers worked hand in hand to remove waste. The lake remains a vital source of livelihood for many fisherfolk and serves as home to a wide variety of fish species.
More than 2,000 volunteers from government offices, private companies, schools, civic organizations, and other community groups came together for the cleanup. Joining them were representatives from HFI’s member companies—Honda Trading Philippines Ecozone Corp. (HTPE), Honda Philippines, Inc. (HPI), Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI), and Honda Parts Manufacturing Corp. (HPMC). The delegation was led by HTPE President Seiki Futagoishi, reaffirming Honda’s commitment to environmental protection.
At the end of the day, participants successfully collected and segregated 12,231 kilograms of debris. The waste was then transported to a dumpsite in San Pedro for proper disposal.
HFI emphasized the importance of shared responsibility in preserving waterways and natural resources, urging Filipinos to participate in activities that promote a cleaner and healthier environment. The foundation emphasized that lasting sustainability can only be achieved through collective action by individuals, communities, and institutions.
The International Coastal Cleanup Day is held annually every third Saturday of September. Established by the non-profit group Ocean Conservancy, the global campaign continues to serve as a rallying point for protecting marine life and safeguarding biodiversity from the threats of pollution.
