The initiative gathered BPI leaders, Coast Guard officers, auxiliary groups, and employee-volunteers in a united effort to rehabilitate the Pasig River—a vital waterway in the heart of Metro Manila.
Milestone for cooperation and readiness
The cleanup also served as the first official sea trial of the rescue boats that BPI recently turned over to PCG MARSLEC under a Memorandum of Agreement signed earlier this month.
Through the combined efforts of BPI, PCG MARSLEC, the Coast Guard National Capital Region–Central Luzon (CG NCRCL), PCGA 109th Squadron, and volunteers, the activity collected 200 sacks—or over 10,000 kilograms—of waste and debris.
“These boats symbolize more than just preparedness for emergencies; they represent BPI’s commitment to protecting our communities and the environment,” said Dominador Bernales Jr., BPI chief security officer.
Stronger ties for safer communities
The two boats, equipped with outboard motors, will support rescue operations, disaster response training, and river cleanups. PCG MARSLEC will oversee their safekeeping and operations for three years before their formal turnover to BPI.
The collaboration, rooted in a Memorandum of Understanding signed in April 2025, also aligns with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ regulatory framework on security and emergency preparedness.
Beyond compliance, the partnership embodies BPI’s mission to build a better Philippines—one community at a time. —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
