Photo of The Ocean Project Interceptor c/o user Motkay Wikimedia commons.
Meycauayan, June 2025 — The Local Government Unit (LGU) of Meycauayan, in collaboration with Energies Rivers, Corp. and The Ocean Cleanup, is launching a comprehensive cleanup and restoration of the heavily polluted Meycauayan River. The Ocean Cleanup’s Interceptor technology is set for deployment in September 2025.
On June 12, 2025, Ocean Cleanup Founder & CEO Boyan Slat announced at the UN Ocean Conference (UNOC) its “30 Cities Program to ocean plastic pollution from rivers by one third by 2030.”
Meycauayan River has long suffered from pollution caused by industrial waste, household garbage, and other contaminants, negatively impacting local communities and ecosystems. The Interceptor is—a solar-powered, autonomous system that captures and removes floating debris and plastic waste before it reaches larger bodies of water, including Manila Bay.
The significant reduction of waste in the river improves water quality, restore aquatic habitats, and support biodiversity recovery. Furthermore, debris removal will help mitigate flooding risks caused by clogged waterways, strengthening community resilience.
The project team, including experts from Energies Rivers and The Ocean Cleanup, is currently conducting detailed assessments using data from local environmental agencies and previous studies to ensure effective deployment.
This initiative marks a significant milestone in Meycauayan’s commitment to environmental sustainability and community well-being. The partnership led by Mayor Henry R. Villarica exemplifies a unified approach to combating pollution through innovative technology, sound engineering, and sustainable management. Montgomery Simus, Ocean Cleanup Global Director of Public Affairs, Policy, and Blue Finance, persistently pursues this breakthrough with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.
Through this project, Meycauayan not only aims to rehabilitate its river but serves as a model for other communities facing similar environmental challenges.
Read more here: https://theoceancleanup.com/updates/the-ocean-cleanup-launches-30-cities-program-to-cut-ocean-plastic-pollution-from-rivers-by-one-third-by-2030/