A recent study by De La Salle University-Dasmariñas, in collaboration with the Korean International Cooperation Agency, EcoWaste Coalition, and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), found a significant amount of marine litter – 12 million pieces – along certain sections of Manila Bay's coastline.
The research focused on 10 sites in the National Capital Region (NCR), Bataan in Central Luzon, and Cavite in CALABARZON. Researchers divided a 100-meter survey line at each site into 20 parts of five meters each, collecting and categorizing litter exceeding 2.5 centimeters in each segment. The study occurred in February, May, August, and November 2023, covering both dry and wet seasons.
The majority (90%) of marine litter collected was various types of plastic, such as single-use utensils, sachets, and wrappers. NCR sites, particularly Tanza Marine Tree Park and Las Piñas-Parañaque Wetland Park, had the highest plastic litter per meter.
Project Director Dr. Johnny Ching emphasized that local communities should not be solely blamed, as factors like water current direction, location elevation, and river connections are also contributors. Apart from single-use plastics, the litter included toys, office supplies, appliances, clothing, and more.
The study highlighted the impact of the "sachet economy" and the surge in single-use utensils during the pandemic. Experts suggested behavioral changes and urged manufacturers to eliminate unnecessary single-use plastics. Biodegradable plastics, while faster to break down, still pose environmental risks.
The research, aimed at expanding knowledge on plastic pollution in Manila Bay, plans to assess the effectiveness of existing waste management laws. The monitoring survey will continue in 2024 and 2025.
According to Dr. Ching, this survey report for 2023 is one of the first comprehensive comparative studies of marine litter in the coast of Manila Bay. This can be the basis for public and private institutions on their programs and activities related to management of marine pollution. Also, this can guide our policy makers and authorities in crafting policies in managing litter that ends up in the Bay.
“The findings reflected the global situation in terms of marine pollution; it is just unfortunate that our country is among the top contributors of marine litter. The volume of marine litter dominated by plastic, is beyond the capacity of the concerned barangays, cities and municipalities to manage. It’s about time that we have to do our share of moral responsibility to preserve and care for our environment and live a sustainable life,” he said.