Holy Child Central Colleges, Inc. (HCCCI) mobilized student volunteers and academic leaders for the International Coastal Cleanup Drive 2026, bringing environmental education into direct community action at the Torres Coastal Area, Purok Pisces, Bucana, Barangay Lasang, Bunawan District, Davao City.

Carrying the theme “Clean Seas for Resilient Communities,” the initiative brought HCCCI students beyond the classroom and into a hands-on effort to address coastal waste, promote environmental responsibility, and contribute to the protection of marine and shoreline ecosystems.

During the cleanup, HCCCI volunteers worked together to collect, segregate, and document waste found along designated sections of the coastline. The activity included the removal of non-biodegradable materials, single-use plastics, and other forms of debris, while waste documentation provided information that can contribute to a better understanding of localized waste patterns.

More than a cleanup activity, the engagement provided students with an opportunity to apply sustainability concepts through direct community participation. Working in an actual coastal environment allowed them to see the effects of improper waste disposal firsthand while developing teamwork, environmental awareness, and a stronger sense of civic responsibility.

The activity also demonstrated the role of educational institutions in connecting learning, community engagement, and environmental stewardship. By involving students directly in conservation activities, HCCCI creates opportunities for young people to participate in addressing environmental concerns while developing the values and competencies needed to become responsible members of their communities.

HCCCI also extends its appreciation to Kap Allan P. Simo-ag for serving as the host community and supporting the conduct of the coastal cleanup activity. The institution likewise acknowledges the assistance of Alberto O. Cadiena Jr., Barangay Secretary, in facilitating community coordination for the initiative.

HCCCI’s participation contributes to several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It advances SDG 14: Life Below Water by supporting efforts to reduce land-based waste that can enter marine environments and threaten aquatic ecosystems. It supports SDG 13: Climate Action by promoting environmental awareness and community-based actions that strengthen the resilience of vulnerable coastal areas.

The initiative also contributes to SDG 4: Quality Education by providing experiential learning opportunities that extend sustainability education beyond the classroom. Through direct participation, students develop practical knowledge, environmental awareness, collaboration skills, and civic responsibility.

Meanwhile, SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals is reflected in the collaborative nature of the activity, bringing together educational stakeholders, local government and barangay partners, and community-based organizations in support of a shared environmental objective.

The International Coastal Cleanup Drive 2026 reflects HCCCI’s broader commitment to CommuNEKTA and community-centered engagement, where students, faculty, and institutional partners are encouraged to contribute their knowledge, skills, and time to communities and causes that require collective action.

Through initiatives such as this, HCCCI continues to strengthen the connection between education and social responsibility. By giving students opportunities to take part in environmental action, the institution helps develop young people who understand that sustainability is not only a global goal, but also a responsibility that begins with what communities choose to do together, on the ground and in their own surroundings.