MANILA — In a concerted effort to bolster environmental conservation, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has urged the youth to actively participate in a nationwide coastal cleanup initiative, coinciding with the commemoration of Maritime and Archipelagic Nation Awareness Month this September.

According to Philippines News Agency, President Marcos emphasized the Philippines' rich maritime and archipelagic resources, which he described as a national blessing that should be developed and preserved. He remarked on the importance of stewardship in utilizing these resources to their full potential. The President highlighted that this year’s celebration of Maritime and Archipelagic Nation Awareness Month (MANAMo) serves as a call to enhance awareness on maritime issues and to mobilize collective efforts in safeguarding the nation’s maritime interests from various threats.

The MANAMo event aligns with several significant environmental observances including Fish Conservation Week, International Coastal Cleanup Day, and National Maritime Day, fostering a month of extensive environmental focus. President Marcos specifically called on the youth to lead and participate in these activities, underlining the critical role of collective action in achieving a sustainable future. "Everything starts from each of us and with all of us working together, we will soon harvest the fruits of our hard work and realize a sustainable and greener future for everyone to enjoy," Marcos stated.

Maritime and Archipelagic Nation Awareness Month was officially established in September 2017 under Proclamation No. 316, aiming to consolidate various maritime-related events into a single month to promote greater national awareness and appreciation of the Philippines’ vast maritime domain. The country, consisting of over 7,000 islands and hosting more than 14,000 coastal communities, relies heavily on its marine resources for economic and social livelihood.