DENR-X CELEBRATES MONTH OF THE OCEAN 2026
Sustaining Ocean Health, Sailing a Resilient Nation
Established through Presidential Proclamation No. 57, s. 1999, the Month of the Ocean (MOO) is celebrated annually every May to recognize the vital role of oceans in sustaining life, supporting economic growth, and promoting environmental resilience. The celebration serves as a platform to raise public awareness on the importance of conserving and sustainably managing marine and coastal resources.
For 2026, the celebration carries the theme “Sustaining Ocean Health, Sailing a Resilient Nation” which underscores the significance of maintaining healthy ocean ecosystems as a foundation for a strong and resilient society. The ocean provides immense opportunities for economic development, employment, and innovation through sectors such as fisheries, aquaculture, maritime transport, tourism, renewable energy, and marine biotechnology. This year’s celebration aims to promote a sustainable and inclusive blue economy while recognizing the ocean’s critical contribution to environmental health, food security, climate resilience, and national prosperity.
In support of this nationwide observance, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Region X (DENR-X), through its various offices and partner stakeholders, conducted a series of activities throughout the region to raise awareness, strengthen environmental stewardship, and encourage active participation in the protection and conservation of coastal and marine ecosystems.
PREPARATORY ACTIVITIES
1. Hanging of Streamer
May 01, 2026 | DENR-X Regional Office
The DENR-X Conservation and Development Division – Coastal Resources and Foreshore Management Section (CDD-CRFMS) fabricated and displayed the official Month of the Ocean (MOO) 2026 banner on May 01, 2026. The banner was made using recyclable office scratch paper and installed along the office hallway to raise awareness that May is the Month of the Ocean and to inform employees and visitors of the upcoming Simultaneous Coastal Clean-Up Activity
2. HR Intervention on the Importance of MOO Celebration
May 04, 2026 | DENR-X Monday Convocation
As part of the Month of the Ocean 2026 celebration, the Coastal Resources and Foreshore Management Section of the Conservation and Development Division conducted an HR Intervention and Communication, Education, and Public Awareness campaign activity during the DENR-X Monday Convocation on May 04, 2026.
The activity commenced with an interactive skit entitled “The Ocean’s Reminder” which highlighted the importance of mangroves, seagrass beds, and coral reefs, as well as the negative impacts of plastic pollution on coastal and marine ecosystems. The skit was made more engaging through audience participation, where each division was assigned specific actions whenever key terms such as mangrove, seagrass beds, coral, and plastic were mentioned. This interactive approach enhanced awareness and understanding of the interconnected roles of coastal habitats and the harmful effects of plastic waste, while effectively reinforcing messages on environmental protection and responsible waste management.
Following the skit presentation, Mr. Shielrow Abastillas, Coastal Extension Officer of the CDD-CRFMS, reminded DENR-X officials and employees of the significance of the Month of the Ocean celebration and reinforced the need for collective action in protecting marine and coastal ecosystems. He also reminded all DENR-X divisions of their assigned areas and responsibilities for the upcoming May 21, 2026 Simultaneous Coastal Clean-Up Activity to ensure proper coordination and participation.
Thereafter, for Mercedita G. Barbarona, Assistant Chief of the Conservation and Development Division and concurrent Chief of the Coastal Resources and Foreshore Management Section, facilitated an Ocean Quiz Bee to further enhance employees’ awareness and knowledge on marine ecosystems and ocean conservation.
3. Preparatory Meeting for the Simultaneous Coastal Clean-up in the 12 Coastal Barangays of Cagayan de Oro City
May 05, 2026 | via Google Meet
A preparatory meeting was conducted by the Coastal Resources and Foreshore Management Section (CRFMS) of DENR-X through Google Meet in preparation for the Simultaneous Coastal Clean-Up Activity scheduled on May 21, 2026.
The meeting provided orientation on clean-up protocols, assigned responsibilities, safety reminders, and logistical arrangements to ensure the smooth implementation of the activity. It was attended by 93 participants (43 males and 50 females) from various national government agencies, academic institutions, DENR-X regional divisions, MGB-X, EMB-X, twelve (12) coastal barangays of Cagayan de Oro City, civil society organizations, and peoples organizations. It also encouraged participation from non-coastal barangays, particularly those in nearby creek systems and upland areas, to support broader watershed and solid waste management efforts.
The activity strengthened coordination and collaboration among stakeholders in preparation for a unified coastal clean-up effort across the city.
COASTAL CLEAN-UP
1. Simultaneous Coastal Clean-up Activity
May 21, 2026 | 12 Coastal Barangays of Cagayan de Oro City
In line with the Month of the Ocean 2026 celebration, the DENR-X Regional Office through the CRFMS, in collaboration with PENRO Misamis Oriental and CENRO Initao, spearheaded a Simultaneous Coastal Clean-Up Activity across the twelve (12) coastal barangays of Cagayan de Oro City and nearby upland creek areas from 5:30 AM to 8:00 AM.
The activity mobilized 1,835 volunteers from 113 participating sectors, reflecting strong multi-sectoral support and commitment to environmental protection. A total of 2,603 sacks of waste, weighing approximately 13,852 kilograms, were collected along a 10.2-kilometer coastal stretch.
Each barangay conducted a short program highlighting the significance of the Month of the Ocean celebration, proper waste management practices, and the importance of coastal conservation.
During the program in Barangay Lapasan, DENR-X Regional Executive Director Henry A. Adornado emphasized the importance of collective responsibility in addressing marine pollution. He highlighted that environmental protection begins at the household and community level through proper waste segregation, reduction of single-use plastics, strengthened Materials Recovery Facilities (MRFs), and strict compliance with environmental laws and ordinances.
He further emphasized that coastal clean-up activities are not only environmental initiatives but also expressions of volunteerism and shared commitment to protect marine ecosystems. He acknowledged the growing participation of stakeholders and commended the collaborative efforts of all partner agencies, local government units, and volunteers.
