Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP), in partnership with Paralympic swimmer Ernie Gawilan, successfully conducted the “Start Your Impossible” National Coastal Cleanup and Mangrove Planting Day on December 14, 2024. Spanning 33 locations nationwide, the event united 1,302 volunteers to combat coastal pollution and restore marine ecosystems. The initiative supports Gawilan’s role as a Global Team Toyota Athlete (GTTA) and his advocacy for cleaner waters.
Volunteers collected 789 bags of plastic waste and debris from coastal areas as part of the cleanup efforts. Additionally, 10,354 mangrove seedlings were planted to rehabilitate critical ecosystems.
Gawilan, an Asian Para Games gold medalist from Samal Island, played a central role in mobilizing communities for the event. His dedication to environmental advocacy stems from his personal connection to the waters that shaped his athletic journey. “I hope I’ve inspired many to work together in preserving our environment, especially our oceans,” Gawilan shared during the event at Samal Island.
TMP and its dealer network emphasized their ongoing efforts to engage communities in sustainability projects. “Ernie’s advocacy reflects Toyota’s commitment to creating a positive impact,” said Elijah Sue Marcial, TMP Vice President for Network Sales & Systems. Denise Lim, President of Toyota Davao Inc., added, “We are proud to support this meaningful initiative alongside such an inspiring individual.”
The event saw participation from various Toyota groups, including Toyota Albay in Sitio Bagong Silong, Toyota San Jose in Barangay Isidro, Toyota Balintawak and North Edsa in Navotas City, Toyota Calamba in San Juan, Batangas, Toyota Zamboanga at Bolong Coastal Area, Toyota Angeles Pampanga in Barangay New Cabalan, Olongapo, Toyota Dagupan and Baguio in Lingayen, Pangasinan, and TMP in Lian, Batangas.
This large-scale initiative not only addressed pressing environmental issues but also highlighted the power of collective action. For updates on Toyota’s projects and events, follow Toyota Motor Philippines on social media platforms.
