Protecting our oceans begins with collective action. On September 25, 2021, SWAN, through its founder Lovanne Gallo, joined Women of Global Change Philippines, volunteers, and government partners in celebrating International Ocean Clean Up Day. The initiative reflected a shared commitment to environmental stewardship and community empowerment, demonstrating how collaborative action can create meaningful and lasting impact.
Led by Women of Global Change through Dean Morales in collaboration with the PNP 403rd and 404th Maneuver Companies under the leadership of PCOL Ledon Damoslog Monte, Regional Mobile Force Battalion 4A, the event brought together volunteers to remove plastic waste from coastal areas while promoting innovative ways to repurpose collected materials. One of the highlights of the project was transforming discarded plastics into eco-bricks and encouraging creative arts as sustainable solutions that give waste a second life (Women of Global Change, 2021).
Through Lovanne Gallo’s participation and commitment to sustainable development, SWAN became part of a broader movement that connected environmental action with humanitarian service. The partnership with Women of Global Change had also supported initiatives such as distributing groceries and coffee to nearly 1,500 children and underserved families, helping build a home for an elderly homeless woman, and preparing future outreach programs that would provide solar lighting, livelihood opportunities, and skills training for indigenous communities (Women of Global Change, 2021).
These early collaborations helped shape the values that continue to guide SWAN today. From coastal clean-up drives and circular design initiatives to textile upcycling, recycled art, and community education, SWAN remains committed to transforming environmental challenges into opportunities that benefit both people and the planet. Every outreach project reflects our belief that sustainability is most powerful when it is built through partnership, creativity, and compassion.
