by: Norberto Betita
In line with the Earth Day celebration and in observance of the yearly National Day of Service, the Surigao Philippines District of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints conducted coastal cleanings along the shores of Sitio Panubigon, Brgy. Lipata, Surigao City. Another group also conducted clean-up at the coastline of Brgy. Mabua, Surigao City. A total of 303 service hours for 101 volunteers were donated. Forty small trash bags, 20 extra-large, and 7 double extra-large were filled with coastal garbage and litters. 
Wearing the popular Helping Hand vests, the group of adults, missionaries, youths and children led by District President Robert Sherwin S. Betita, together with available Priesthood leaders started the coastal clean-up at 7AM and ended at 10AM confronting the heat of the rising eastern sun. Children and youth enjoyed observing the moving little creatures on the semi-dried sands while cleaning the wastes and trashes. They thought that with cleaner coastal surroundings these creatures will survive long and increase in numbers. The leaders hoped that this activity will open the minds of youths and children on the importance of protecting the environment and therefore participate in future environmental protection programs and activities of the Church or any other socio-civic organizations' similar initiatives.
Along the same coastal area are found the growing mangrove plantation which was part of previous National Day of Service activities of the Surigao Philippines District. The youths who did more part in planting these mangrove trees are hoping that these will remain to become a sanctuary and breeding habitation for ocean life in Surigao City.
Earlier the District Presidency coordinated with the barangay officials and the officials of the Surigao City Environment and Natural Resources Office (ENRO) of the planned activity. They expressed gratitude and support for the undertaking.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints supports the worldwide efforts for environmental protection by encouraging its members and the people throughout the world through the social media to participate and contribute in saving the ecosystem.
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