The UNTV-Ocean Care Initiative (OCI) and the Members Church of God International (MCGI) made a strong statement for environmental action as they collected a total of 919 sacks of trash, weighing 9,553 kilograms, during the International Coastal Cleanup (ICC) 2025 held on September 20, 2025.

This is in support of the simultaneous coastal cleanup activities spearheaded by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in 298 cleanup sites across the country. The UNTV-OCI mobilized a total of 1,132 youth volunteers from MCGI nationwide as a contribution to this collective environmental effort.

DENR recognizes MCGI’s contribution
Ariz Abad, Head of the Regional Strategic Communications and Initiatives Group of DENR-NCR, highlighted the importance of the International Coastal Cleanup. He said this global initiative is not just about collecting trash, but also about raising awareness and encouraging communities to become committed environmental stewards.
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“On behalf of the DENR, we would like to thank all the participants, volunteers of the international coastal cleanups. One of those volunteer organizations is the MCGI Cares, so we’re really thankful and grateful for organizations like yours that actively work not only with the DENR but also for the benefit of the general public,” Abad said.
Abad also reiterated the need for communities to work hand in hand, stressing that ocean pollution must be tackled through a whole-of-society approach.

NYC underscores role of the youth
Meanwhile, National Youth Commission Undersecretary Jeff Ortega emphasized the importance of collective action of youth in finding innovative solutions to the challenges facing society.

“This is very important because, as you know, with what’s happening now in the Philippines—there’s corruption, there are issues with flood control—this is one way for us to come together. What we are doing here is an example of us taking action. When the youth act collectively, we can truly see changes in our country. Because nowadays, solutions to problems are different. The problems we face now require innovation, and when you talk about innovation, the youth naturally have that kind of mindset,” Ortega said.

Instilling values and environmental stewardship
Ortega added that the simple act of picking up trash instills the value of caring for the environment. Ortega also acknowledged the vital role of religious organizations in shaping good values, such as environmental stewardship, among the youth.

‍“As much as possible, we want to spread the gospel of good values to everyone. For me, it’s very important that our interfaith and religious sectors are here, because like you guys—showcasing what the youth can do—is something you can also bring back to your church. And if all your churchgoers are taught to be stewards of God’s creation, then surely, what a beautiful world we will have,” he said.‍

To God be the glory!