The massive flooding in Metro Manila and other provinces in Luzon last July 2025 was extremely alarming and showed a real cause of concern for our country.
A team of private institutions responded to the challenge, formed an alliance by organizing two relevant events that will spark transformation – Plog the Planet Parade and the 6th International Sustainability Summit.
Happening on September 28, 2025 at Lakeshore Taguig, Plog the Planet Parade is a clean up fun run activity that enables participants to pick up the trash they find while running or walking their way to the finish line. The organizers want to convey a strong message that these wastes do not belong to any of our bodies of water.
Participants from this running for an environmental cause gain access to the 6th International Sustainability Summit to be held on October 1, 2025 at Jose Rizal University in Mandaluyong City. The summit brings together leaders from business, education, government, and civil society to share ideas, solutions, and real stories of sustainability in action.
Spearheaded by key partners and sponsors, including ACG Human Capital, Help Alliance, Bcon Japan, FutureFit Collab, JNE, Infinidad and Jose Rizal University, these activities encourage our citizens to be responsible protectors of our planet, helping us achieve these key global goals, which include clean water, responsible consumption, zero poverty, and stronger communities.
“This isn’t just about picking up trash,” said Dr. Gem Brion Zabala, co-organizer. “It’s about protecting lives and futures. Last week’s flood showed what happens when we ignore the link between waste and disaster. These events offer a better way forward,” added Dr. Zabala.
“Sustainability is not a buzzword,” said Berend Aanraad, Dutch sustainability expert and curator of the Summit. “It is a way of thinking, living, and leading. Real change starts close to home, with communities that care, habits that heal, and systems that serve people and the planet. Sometimes, all it takes to begin is showing up and picking up one piece of trash.”
Every Stride Protects our Future
Participating in this worthwhile endeavor will benefit our planet. Mangrove Matters PH will plant one mangrove seedling for every registered runner. They will also receive certificates as proof of their contribution to coastal reforestation.
Trash to Cashback makes recycling rewarding through its Eco-Marathon. Participating runners earn Environmental Points when they collect recyclables, which they can exchange for discounts and digital vouchers.
IamMIKA ensures that proceeds from these events support education, health, and livelihood programs in seven coastal communities in the Philippines.
Be Part of the Movement
Registration is still on-going. Schools, companies, families, and LGUs are all encouraged to join. Whether you plog, partner, or present, your role will help shape a cleaner, safer future for the Philippines.
To register or become a sponsor, contact: plogtheplanet@futurefitcollab.org.
Let’s plog the planet together, one step at a time, one piece of trash at a time, one community at a time.
