LIMAY, BATAAN - The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has implemented several key initiatives to manage and mitigate the impact of the oil spill from the sunken motor tanker M/T Terra Nova, which occurred off the coast of Limay, Bataan.
According to Philippines News Agency, the DENR, particularly through its Environmental Management Bureau (EMB), has conducted a thorough survey of the site and is now focusing on assessing the spill's effects on water and air quality. The EMB is tasked with interpreting the data to determine the extent of contamination and implement appropriate responses.
Further measures taken by the DENR include the activation of hazardous transport companies and laboratories to handle the aftermath, and the creation of natural spill booms to physically contain the spill. These booms are being produced with the assistance of teams that had previously managed the Mindoro oil spill, now stationed in Pampanga and prepared to offer training and support.
Secretary Yulo-Loyzaga emphasized the critical nature of protecting sensitive ecological and economic areas, including mangroves, fisheries, and seafood production zones, from potential damage. She reiterated the importance of preventing the oil from reaching nearshore areas to safeguard these vital resources. Collaboration with the University of the Philippines Marine Science Institute, the Philippine Space Agency, and the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration is ongoing to monitor and address the situation comprehensively.
In parallel, Secretary of the Interior and Local Government Benhur Abalos assured that the national government is poised to support local communities potentially affected by the spill. During a meeting in San Fernando City, Pampanga, Abalos relayed the President's directive to maintain daily updates and a proactive response stance, coordinating efforts across various cities and provinces to prepare for any escalation.
The inter-agency task force led by the Office of the Civil Defense is also involved in comprehensive response efforts, including sealing the tanker's leaking valves and planning for the siphoning of the remaining fuel. The Department of Labor and Employment and the Department of Social Welfare and Development are preparing support measures for those economically impacted.