Breathtaking results of the cleanup drive for the rehabilitation of the Manila Bay have sent Filipinos and tourists to Roxas Boulevard to catch a glimpse of the transformation of its shoreline, merely days after the rehab started in a bid to bring back its pristine condition.
Photos show the immediate results of the “Save Manila Bay” project, with people already swimming in the water. Check out photos taken by local tourists.
Thousands of government employees and volunteers gathered at the shore of the Manila Bay on Sunday, January 27 to help with the start of the cleanup drive of the heavily polluted coastline.
A total of 40 tons of garbage which were carried out by 11 garbage trucks were collected and removed from Manila Bay’s shore.
Led by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), various government agencies have helped out to rehabilitate and restore the beauty of Manila Bay.
Environment Secretary Roy Cimatu said in a statement: “This is a battle that will be won not with force or arms but with the firm resolve to bring Manila Bay back to life.”
“With the commitment and determination of every Filipino to do his share in this rehabilitation effort, we have already won the battle for Manila Bay.”
“We cannot afford to prolong this cleanup activity because this has long been neglected. Manila Bay is not a lost cause.”
Authorities would also keep a close eye on the commercial establishments and informal settlers near the shore who contribute to the piling of trash in the area.
Netizens also can’t help but feel hopeful that Manila Bay will restore its natural beauty in the near future. Some of them even posted photos of Manila Bay after the drive.