To sustain the momentum of the KALINISAN sa Bagong Pilipinas Program, DILG R5 participated in the nationwide conduct of the Simultaneous Clean-Up Activity on 3 August 2024. Barangay LGUs, Sangguniang Kabataan, Civil Society Organizations, and barangay residents across the region actively joined the activity.

Barangay Concepcion, Virac, Catanduanes, under the leadership of Punong Brgy. Anthony A. Arcilla, was celebrated as the Regional Showcase Barangay. This event was graced by Asst. Regional Director Jhoaden G. Lucero and supported by DILG Catanduanes Provincial Director Uldarico S. Razal, Virac MLGOO Lea A. Madrid and LGMED Chief Darlyn D. Ayende. Joining DILG in this effort were representatives from the Philippine National Police, Bureau of Fire Protection, Provincial Government of Catanduanes, and Municipal Government of Virac.

Meanwhile, DILG Regional, Provincial, and Field Office Personnel personally visited barangays in their respective areas to ensure the successful conduct of the activity— focusing the cleanup on waterways and engaging community members to participate.

The Nationwide Simultaneous Clean-Up Activity was part of the Barangay at Kalinisan Day (BARKADA), a KALINISAN Program initiative aimed at promoting weekly clean-ups in all barangays to maintain a healthy and safe environment. This week’s clean-up drive specifically targeted esteros, canals, and drainage systems, as a preventive measure against flooding and in preparation for La Niña.