MANILA, (PIA) -- Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairperson Atty. Benhur Abalos today warned individuals caught polluting Metro Manila waterways would be made to clean up Manila Bay as part of their community service.

"I've already talked with DILG Secretary Eduardo Año on this matter. Those apprehended would be obliged to clean Manila Bay," Abalos stressed.

The MMDA chief earlier sought the assistance of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), asking help from the policemen to arrest individuals who will throw garbage in waterways, and more particularly, the Manila Bay.

Abalos on Monday personally supervised the agency's cleanup operations at Manila Bay, as influx of trash was swept into the bay due to heavy rains in the past days brought by southwest monsoon.

At least 70 personnel from MMDA Metro Parkways Clearing Group were deployed to clean Manila Bay.

According to Abalos, two truckloads of garbage were collected in the area yesterday, or about 40 cubic meters.

Among the trash seen from bay's shoreline were plastic bottles, pieces of styrofoam and other debris.

"Plastics are the most common trash found in Manila Bay. Undisputedly, it negatively affects the environment," Abalos pointed out.

Moreover, Abalos appealed to the public to avoid throwing discards anywhere.

"Let us start a move right now. Behavioral change among Filipinos is key to address plastic waste problem in Manila Bay. Stop the habit of indiscriminate dumping not only in Manila Bay, but also on different waterways in the metropolis," Abalos said.

The MMDA chief also expressed gratefulness to the personnel of Department of Environment and Natural Resources and City Government of Manila for their clean-up initiatives in Manila Bay. (PIA-NCR)