The Ocean Cleanup Deploys Plastic Waste Interceptors in Manila

A GLOBAL nonprofit organization is set to deploy plastic waste interceptors to capture ocean-bound plastic waste in Manila. The Ocean Cleanup, a nonprofit organization that develops technologies, said that Manila will be part of the program’s initial rollout in 2026, in collaboration with local governments, the private sector, and other organizations, to kick off the project in Manila Bay. The initiative is part of its 30 Cities program, which aims to remove ocean-bound plastic pollution in 30 key cities in Asia and the Americas. “Through the 30 Cities Program, The Ocean Cleanup aims to shift from isolated river cleanups to city-wide, scalable solutions that significantly reduce marine plastic pollution at its source,” said Boyan Slat, founder and CEO of The Ocean Cleanup. Slat added that its kick-off project in the Philippines showcases its long-term commitment to ensuring coastal ecosystems are protected and that Manila Bay is safeguarded. According to studies conducted by the EcoWaste Coalition, the Korea International Cooperation Agency (Koica), the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), and De La Salle University-Dasmariñas, the waterways flowing into Manila Bay reportedly carry waste that is over 90 percent hard and film plastics. The Ocean Cleanup will deploy its interceptor technologies — ranging from heavy-duty trash traps to autonomous, solar-powered systems — designed to capture plastic waste directly from rivers. Through artificial intelligence and detailed river mapping, they will identify the most effective type of interceptor and its best locations in each city. The collected waste will then be brought to shore for proper disposal and recycling. As of December 2025, the Ocean Cleanup has collected over 46 million kilograms of trash from global aquatic ecosystems. Aside from Manila, the rollout of the program would also include cities like Los Angeles, Mumbai, and Panama City.