The Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI), in partnership with the Philippine Coast Guard Maritime Security and Law Enforcement Command (PCG MARSLEC), conducted its first River Clean-Up Drive at the Mexico Plaza Ferry Station in Intramuros, marking a major step in disaster preparedness, environmental protection, and community resilience.
The event brought together BPI leaders, Coast Guard officers, auxiliary units, and employee-volunteers in a joint effort to rehabilitate the Pasig River. The activity also served as the inaugural sea trial for two rescue boats previously turned over by BPI to PCG MARSLEC under a memorandum of agreement signed earlier this month.
More than 10,000 kilograms of waste, equivalent to 200 sacks, were collected during the cleanup through the combined efforts of BPI, PCG MARSLEC, the Coast Guard National Capital Region–Central Luzon (CG NCRCL), the PCGA 109th Squadron, and other volunteers.
“These boats symbolize more than just preparedness for emergencies; they represent BPI’s commitment to protecting our communities and the environment,” said BPI chief security officer Dominador Bernales, Jr.
The two rescue boats, equipped with outboard motors, will support rescue operations, disaster response training, and environmental initiatives such as river and coastal cleanups. They will be managed by PCG MARSLEC for three years before being formally donated by BPI.
The initiative also aligns with Section 147 of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ Manual of Regulations for Banks, mandating robust security and emergency response protocols. The project reflects BPI’s broader commitment to nation-building through sustainable and community-centered partnerships.
