Bataan Recommended for State of Calamity Due to Oil Spill

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MANILA, Philippines — Authorities are considering declaring a state of calamity in Bataan following the significant impact of the oil spill from MT Terranova.


"There is a recommendation to declare another state of calamity based on the effects of the oil spill," stated Arvin Catipon, head of the Bataan Provincial Disaster and Risk Reduction Management Office, in a "24 Oras" report by Jun Veneracion on Wednesday.


Health and Environmental Observations


The Department of Health (DOH) is monitoring the environmental conditions in the affected areas. "The environment seems to be improving. We haven’t received any reports of illnesses related to this incident," noted DOH Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire.


Economic Impact on Fishermen and Markets


Over 17,000 fishermen in Bataan have been affected by the oil spill, with markets reducing fish prices despite efforts to source from unaffected areas of Manila Bay.


"Our regular customers are even the ones who are scared," commented a vendor, highlighting concerns over fish safety.


"Before the oil spill, this fish was P340. Now, it’s P240," another vendor added.


However, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) has declared the fish safe. "According to our ground personnel, we have not detected fish with traces of the oil spill," said BFAR Spokesperson Naz Briguera.


Government and International Assistance


Local vendors have sought aid, which is currently being organized by municipal authorities. The Philippine Coast Guard's recent Sea Surface Survey found no remaining oil traces or scents in nearby areas. Nevertheless, the siphoning of 1.4 million liters of industrial fuel oil from the vessel has been delayed due to challenges in resealing its valves.


The United States Coast Guard and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration have offered their assistance to mitigate the oil spill and salvage the vessel. Diving operations are ongoing at the site of the leak.


Efforts continue to address the environmental and economic impacts of the oil spill, ensuring recovery and support for affected communities.

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