Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP), in partnership with Paralympic swimmer Ernie Gawilan, successfully concluded the “Start Your Impossible” National Coastal Cleanup and Mangrove Planting Day on December 14, 2024.
The event, conducted in 33 locations across the Philippines, strived to promote marine ecosystem protection and combat coastal pollution, aligning with Gawilan’s role as a Global Team Toyota Athlete (GTTA).
The initiative mobilized 1,302 volunteers from TMP and its dealer network, working alongside local government units and environment offices. Together, the participants collected 789 bags of plastic waste and debris while planting 10,354 mangrove seedlings to restore critical coastal forests.
Gawilan, an Asian Para Games gold medalist and proud Davaoeño, played a key role in inspiring communities to take part in the event.
“This day means so much to me. I’m grateful to the Toyota family for helping with the tree planting and coastal cleanup. I hope we’ve inspired many to work together to preserve our environment, especially the ocean, where my journey began,” he said.
The cleanup and mangrove planting day are part of Toyota’s global “Start Your Impossible” program, which empowers athletes to champion social causes beyond sports.
“We at Toyota are proud to collaborate with stakeholders and communities to give back. This event highlights Toyota’s commitment to the environment, made even more special with Ernie’s inspiring presence,” said Toyota Davao Inc. president Denise Lim.
