MONTH of the Ocean is a national observance that highlights the vital role of healthy marine ecosystems in supporting food security, climate resilience, biodiversity and economic sustainability across the archipelago. In culmination of this observance, First Gen Corporation, through its employee volunteerism program Employee POWER (EmPOWER), conducted a coastal cleanup drive on May 30, 2026, at Freedom Island. The activity brought together employees and dependents from across the First Gen Group and the broader Lopez Group community.

It was held in collaboration with First Gen’s Create for the Climate program and in partnership with Communities Organized for Resource Allocation or CORA, a nonprofit organization that mobilizes volunteers to help address social and environmental challenges such as marine pollution and climate change.

Freedom Island, located within the Las Piñas-Parañaque Wetland Park, forms part of an internationally recognized wetland and one of Metro Manila’s important remaining coastal ecosystems. Its mangroves, mudflats and coastal habitats provide refuge for marine life and migratory birds while also helping buffer nearby communities from flooding, storm surges and other climate-related impacts.

“True environmental stewardship moves beyond awareness into meaningful action. Through efforts like this, we enjoin our employees, communities, and other stakeholders to safeguard the essential ecosystems that sustain us,” First Gen vice president Shirley Cruz shared in a statement.

The coastal cleanup drive also supported First Gen’s continuing commitment to environmental stewardship by helping protect a vital coastal ecosystem that sustains biodiversity, strengthens climate resilience and supports nearby communities. Through EmPOWER and Create for the Climate, the company continues to create opportunities for employees and communities to turn everyday action into meaningful impact.

This year’s cleanup gathered 63 volunteers from First Gen and the entire Lopez Group, who collectively helped remove 248.8 kilograms of waste from the coastal area.

Turning everyday action into meaningful impact Story By Dianne Toledo