Let’s Clean Up Manila Bay

Rappler.com reports that according to US-based group Ocean Conservancy, the amount of garbage collected from Philippine seas has been doubling every year since 2010. The most polluted Philippine body of water is Manila Bay, the place of inspiration to many songs and poems and situated in the west of Manila that for centuries has remained famous for its romantic sunset. In February 2016, the Bay’s coliform level (indicator of water pollution) was reported to be ‘still in the millions.’ The level wherein the Bay would be clean enough for swimming is 1,000 MPN (most probable number per 1000 milliliters) which sadly seems to be ‘a far far away dream’ but nonetheless still attainable through concerted efforts by all of us who care about our Manila Bay.

What comprises Manila Bay pollutants?

Plastic bags account to about 61.9% of the materials polluting Manila Bay according to EcoWaste Coalition, Greenpeace, and Mother Earth Foundation. What are other pollutants? Other pollutants include single-use plastics (wrappers), cigarette butts, clothes, rags, sponges, rubber garbage (like discarded rubber slippers), and biodegradables (including food, feces or fecal materials, human refuse and urine).

What are the destructive effects of plastic water pollutants in the Bay?

It can wreak havoc in our marine ecosystems. They can choke and kill fishes, turtles, and other marine animals. They can damage the coral reefs.

What is its impact to health and disease?

Edible fish and marine animal that end up on the dinner plate are avenues whereby plastics can find their way and can harm humans.

What has the government done so far?

Aside from the City of Manila and nearby cities’ mobilization of clean up forces in the shores of Manila Bay, on December 18, 2008, the Supreme Court, in a Writ of Continuing Mandamus, has tasked at least 6 governmental agencies to spearhead the Manila Bay clean up.

What can you do about this pollution problem?

Simple things like, bringing your own recyclable bag (bayong or canvas) in the market and in shopping can be a simple and little help but with a big influence to others. It also shows good example to the children. Let us be part of the solution. Here are some things that we can do: Buy products with little or no plastic packaging; Reduce plastic by “bringing your own” metal bottle water bottle or mug in school; Refuse the use of single-use plastic in groceries and stores; Dispose your waste properly; Keep drains clean; Spread the word about the destructive effects of water pollution; Get involved in the cleaning up of rivers and ‘esteros’ (before wastes finally reach the ocean); Participate in the clean up; and Report litter incidents