20/07/2024
UNDERWATER CLEANUP DIVE AT MABINI, BATANGAS 2024
As a diver, you have the privilege of being an ambassador for the ocean. With this privilege comes a responsibility to care for the ocean and protect its marine life. Marine pollution is a significant challenge, but it is not insurmountable. We can still save our oceans if we all do our part. One way you can make a difference is by participating in beach and dive cleanups.
Over 20 divers enthusiastically participated in the underwater cleanup at Mabini, Batangas in April 2024. It was a remarkable and successful event organized by PNP Maritime Group in collaboration with 3rd Special Operations Unit. Our dedicated instructors and Police Officers led the group. With great preparation, more than 50 scuba tanks were assembled, and each diver contributed an hour of their time to the cause. Our team diligently collected bags of waste.
Additionally, here are three reasons why you should participate in an Underwater Cleanup:
1. Mitigate Marine Litter Pollution
Improper waste disposal poses a significant threat to the health of our oceans. Regrettably, litter discarded on the streets can be easily transported by rainwater into drains and eventually into streams, rivers, and ultimately the oceans. By actively participating in beach, coastal, and underwater cleanups, you can play a crucial role in combating ocean pollution and making a positive impact on marine ecosystems.
2. Mitigate Marine Debris to Ensure Aquatic Life Safety
Marine litter poses significant detrimental impacts on the marine ecosystem and aquatic life. Various types of trash, including plastics and discarded fishing gear, accumulate in the ocean, posing threats to marine creatures. Fish, sea turtles, marine mammals, and even birds face health risks due to the ingestion of plastic debris. For instance, sea turtles often mistake floating plastic bags for jellyfish, which are part of their natural diet.
Entanglement poses another alarming threat to marine life, affecting both small and large creatures. Entangled animals may suffer from suffocation, starvation, drowning, or increased vulnerability to predators due to their impaired ability to defend themselves. Participating in underwater cleanup initiatives can effectively reduce the prevalence of marine debris, thereby enhancing the safety and well-being of aquatic life.
3. Promoting Local Economic Growth through Sustainable Tourism
Coastal communities heavily rely on tourism as a primary source of livelihood, encompassing local restaurants, souvenir shops, accommodations, dive centers, and water sports operators. Maintaining clean surroundings serves as a crucial factor in attracting tourists and fostering economic growth. Tourists are more inclined to visit and recommend places that prioritize environmental cleanliness, thereby contributing to the overall prosperity of the local economy.
If you are interested in underwater cleanup, you may join underwater cleanup dives if you have an Open Water Diver Certification or higher. Please contact the dive shops in Mabini, Batangas to inquire about dive trips and SCUBA diving deals in Batangas
Philippine National Police-Maritime Group
PNP Content Creator Group
Maritime Group 3rd Special Operations Unit-Philippine National Police
Ka Bubbles Jonathan Sumagang
