May 21–23, 2025, Brgy. Casay, Argao, Cebu – In observance of the Month of the Ocean and the International Day for Biodiversity, a large-scale SCUBASURERO and Debris Removal activity was successfully conducted at Casay Reef, spearheaded by the Local Government Unit of Argao.
The activity brought together several key agencies and partners including the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – CENRO Argao, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Region 7, Philippine Coast Guard, LGUs of Argao and Dalaguete, MDRRMO of Argao and Dalaguete, the Southeast Cebu Free Divers Association, Barangay Local Government Unit of Casay and Cebu Beach Club. The Coastal Conservation and Education Foundation, Inc. (CCEF) joined the initiative by providing technical assistance and participating in underwater debris removal efforts.
The cleanup was prompted by recurring marine debris issues in the area—primarily plastics, ropes, and discarded aquaculture materials that threaten the ecological integrity of Casay Reef. Given the reef’s biodiversity and sensitivity, the cleanup was not only timely but essential.
Over the course of three days, the team removed approximately 1,500 kilograms of marine debris, including PET bottles, food wrappers, diapers, sanitary pads, ropes, Styrofoam, tires, and more. In parallel, residents and officials of Casay also conducted a coastal cleanup along the shorelines.
The event showcased the power of inter-agency collaboration and community action in addressing complex environmental challenges. For CCEF, it was a valuable opportunity to support local partners and reaffirm its ongoing mission to assist coastal communities in protecting their marine ecosystems.
Together, these collective efforts advance a shared vision for sustainable and resilient coastal resource management in Southeast Cebu.
