In a significant step towards environmental sustainability, the Kick-off Meeting and Implementation Agreement Signing for the Master Plan for Marine Plastic Waste Management in Bataan took place, Tuesday morning.

Led by the Provincial Government of Bataan headed by Governor Joet Garcia, in collaboration with the Korea Environmental Industry and Technology Institute (KEITI), represented by Division of Environmental Industry Director General Ju Hyun Cho, the event marked the commencement of a Consulting Official Development Assistance (ODA) project.

Gov. Garcia said the primary objective of the project is to formulate a comprehensive master plan aimed at enhancing environmental stewardship and addressing the pressing issue of plastic pollution in the province’s oceans and rivers.

Additionally, it seeks to conduct pre-feasibility studies and develop Project Concept Papers (PCPs) for infrastructure projects and policy implementations not only within Bataan but also in other areas of the country facing similar challenges. “We are wholeheartedly grateful to the Government of Korea for their generous donation of US$500,000.00 to support this project and provide technical assistance aligned with the Manila Bay Sustainable Development Master Plan (MBSDMP) and the Ten-Year Solid Waste Management Plan of our province,” Governor Garcia said.

Among those present at the event were Vice Governor Cris Garcia, League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP) President Tonypep Raymundo, representatives from the Provincial Government’s Environmental and Natural Resources Office (PG-ENRO) led by OIC-PG-ENRO Raphael C. de Leon, EnP, Director Al O. Orolfo, DENR PENR Bataan Officer Raul Mamac, as well as delegates from the Foreign-Assisted and Special Projects Service (FASPS), Korea Ministry of Environment, Chonnam National University, and Eco Creation.

With the collective efforts of government agencies, international partners, and local stakeholders, the initiative signals a crucial stride towards safeguarding marine ecosystems and promoting sustainable development in Bataan and beyond. As the project unfolds, it is poised to serve as a model for proactive environmental management strategies across the region.

The post Bataan combats marine plastic waste appeared first on 1Bataan.