Pangasinan town cleans up coastal areas

SAN FABIAN, Pangasinan, Philippines — The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) led other government agencies, students and volunteers in a coastal clean-up of the beaches in this town early on the last day of May.

Raymundo Gayo, provincial environment and natural resources office (PENRO) chief, told reporters that the activity was in celebration of the 16th Month of the Ocean.

Gayo said this was in support of cleaning the beaches, oceans, rivers and other bodies of waters.

He said this was part of their advocacy being the lead agency in protecting the environment and natural resources to benefit the people.

Gayo said they chose the beaches in this town because San Fabian is one of the most frequented by local tourists.

He said that they are coordinating with the local government unit (LGU) as well other agencies like the Department of Tourism (DOT) for concerns in protecting the area.

He said a no-parking policy has been instituted on the beach while they discuss with LGU officials a review and of various concerns.

Aside from parking ban on coastal areas, he said they will also determine if the location of cottages complies with the law and if there is a need to study proper wastewater disposal.

Meanwhile, Gayo also said that have served notice of violations to some residents and businesses occupying foreshore areas.