My roots have always been a source of great pride for me, as a Pinoy, who loves exploring the world. There is so much to celebrate about being Filipino, from our stunning coastlines and diverse heritage to our warm hospitality and delectable cuisine.
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Though my travel plans have not been that frequent lately, my passion for discovery remains burning. As I’ve been keeping my blog updated with articles and insights, I came across a disappointing statistic: the Philippines is among the top countries liable for polluting the ocean with plastic. This hits remarkably close to home.
It is apparent that plastic pollution is a worldwide crisis. All too often, we see photos of beaches covered in plastic rubbish and sea turtles caught in fishing nets. It hurts to learn that my own country plays a big part in this devastation.
Inadequate waste management systems and the general lack of environmental consciousness are only two of the many reasons. Regardless of how little the causes may be, it makes no difference as the impact is substantial. Our marine life is in distress, ecosystems are degrading, and our Philippines’ image is stained.
This echoes another post that I wrote not long ago about Manila having the highest crime index in all of Southeast Asia. It’s terrible, to put it bluntly. I want to be proud of the Philippines, the country where I grew up and plan to retire. However, these realities are challenging to ignore.
Working and living in Singapore for about 7 years now, it also feels difficult not to draw comparisons. The country has placed a strong emphasis on waste management and environmental sustainability for many years. The difference is so obvious. There is a clear sense of environmental responsibility, reflecting in the streets of Singapore that, if not spotless, are constantly clean. Anything is possible when a country put sustainability first, and it serves as an ongoing reminder of such. This experience fuels my hope for the Philippines. If Singapore, a small island nation, can achieve such impressive results, surely we can too.
Feeling guilty and discouraged is typical among us, Filipinos. But amidst this dark cloud of disappointment, I also see a silver lining. We are a resilient nation, and we have a history of bouncing back from adversities.
I know that our government (especially the LGUs) is doing something about it, with measures like encouraging sustainable alternatives to plastic and enforcing stronger waste management. But this will need more than just government intervention. Making an impact requires our collective responsibility.
My voice may not be impactful, but I urge my fellow Pinoys who may happen to visit this article to honor our country and its heritage. Let’s prove to the world that we’re not just contributors to these pollutants but an example of change. Let us religiously practice “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.” I know this has been an existing statement since we took primary education, but I honestly think most of us have not bothered to follow it. Now more than ever, these three principles are crucial. Let us raise awareness among individuals about the dangers of plastic pollution and urge them toward ecologically conscious habits. Lastly, let’s resonate with the initiatives other individuals or groups have done by supporting them in prioritizing sustainable choices.
The “trip” towards a plastic-free country will be long and challenging, but we must endure it. Let’s unite to safeguard our seas, revive our ecosystems, and contribute to making the world a better place for future generations.
Virgin Island, Bohol, Philippines
As a Pinoy Traveler, my goal is to one day see the world without becoming concerned about the adverse effects of plastic at every turn. This may be an ideal or an alternate reality, but I dream of a world with abundant marine life, thriving coral reefs, and coastlines free of non-biodegradable trash. I feel that we can achieve this goal if we work together with conviction. Maybe the Philippines will eventually follow other countries’ lead (like Singapore) and be an example of sustainable development.
I may be an inconsistent travel blogger. On one hand, I’m eloquent about my love of exploring new places and trying out cuisines, and on the other hand, I rant about the issues my country faces. But my devotion to the Philippines has never changed. It’s a place I call home, and I’ll never give up hope that we can make it through this tough time and create a better future together.
Mabuhay ang Pilipinas!
