he Port Management Office of Misamis Oriental/Cagayan de Oro (PMO MOC) proudly led its participation in the 2025 International Coastal Cleanup (ICC) on September 20, 2025, joining the world’s largest volunteer movement dedicated to ocean conservation. With the global theme “Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunity”, this year’s observance emphasized the shared duty of every individual to protect marine resources and ensure resilient coastal communities.

At 5:00 a.m., PMO MOC mobilized 38 dedicated Earth Warriors. To recognize outstanding contributions, the Port Police Department (PPD) received acknowledgment for hauling the heaviest trash at 10 kilos, while the Port Services Division (PSD) was cited for retrieving the most unique finds, which included a bag, bones, and clay pots.

As part of its network-wide observance, the Terminal Management Office of Balingoan also carried out a simultaneous cleanup drive along Punta Beach, Barangay Lapinig, Balingoan. The activity gathered around 100 volunteers from the PPA, Local Government Unit of Balingoan, PCBSI PTMC, shipping lines, Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Jejors Construction, barangay residents, and civic organizations. Their collective effort resulted in the recovery of about 20 sacks of assorted wastes, mostly composed of plastic materials, food wrappers, and marine debris.

The International Coastal Cleanup, held every third Saturday of September, goes beyond simply reducing marine litter. It also generates vital data for shaping effective waste management strategies and environmental policies. By taking part in this annual campaign, PMO MOC, together with TMO Balingoan and other partner organizations, demonstrated their unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship, marine conservation, and community-driven action.