Photo by: Erlin M. Due
Press Release
ANGELES CITY, Pampanga — Around 180 volunteers rolled up their sleeves early Friday to clear plastics and other solid waste from the Abacan River in Barangay Pampang, underscoring a community-led push to protect one of the city’s vital waterways as the world marked World Cleanup Day 2026.
Led by Balibago Waterworks, the Sept. 19 cleanup brought together representatives from business groups, civic organizations, government offices and local communities.
Among those who participated were the Metro Angeles Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MACCii), ARAW-ACI, Soliman EC, Nagkakaisang Guardians and the Philippine College of Criminology (PCCR).
Representatives from the Office of Rep. Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin Jr., Angeles City Veterinary Office, Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) and the Barangay Pampang local government unit also joined the activity.
Photo by: Erlin M. Due
The cleanup began at 6 a.m., with volunteers collecting plastic materials and other solid waste along portions of the river.
Organizers said the activity highlighted the importance of sustained community participation in keeping waterways clean and protecting water resources.
The cleanup formed part of the global observance of World Cleanup Day, an international campaign that mobilizes communities and organizations to address waste pollution and promote environmental responsibility.