By Thiago Santos Governor Hermilando Mandanas with members Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in Batangas during the announcement of the success...
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| Governor Hermilando Mandanas with members Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in Batangas during the announcement of the successful completion of the oil spill response. The joint efforts of the PCG and other agencies have effectively contained and cleaned up the affected areas, ensuring the restoration of the environment and safeguarding the livelihoods of local communities. (Photo from Batangas PIO) |
BATANGAS CITY - Batangas ends its oil spill response as the governor formally announces its termination on August 31, 2023.
The oil spill response from the sunken MT Princess Empress in the waters off Naujan, Oriental Mindoro in Batangas was initiated after a tanker accident caused a significant amount of oil to be released into the surrounding waters.
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in Batangas informed Governor Hermiland Mandanas that the cleanup efforts have been completed and the affected areas have been restored to their pre-spill condition.
The termination of the response also signifies the end of any ongoing monitoring and assessment activities, as all necessary measures have been taken to mitigate the impact of the oil spill.
According to PCG Batangas Commander, Captain Victorino Acosta IV, in the meeting held at the Capitol, there is no trace of an oil spill, particularly in the seven barangays of Isla Verde Island in Batangas City and the Town of Tingloy.
He shared the prompt and collective cooperation of various agencies and the private sector to provide a solution to the further spread of oil that could possibly damage the nature and marine bio-diversity of the province.
With Provincial Administrator Wilfredo Racelis, Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) Head Dr. Amor Calayan, and PPOSD Department Head Atty. Genaro Cabral, Batangas City DRRMO Chief Rod De la Roca, and representatives of various offices of the Provincial Government of Batangas agreed to have a final survey, ocular inspection, and water quality sampling to fully declare the termination and demobilization of the oil spill response.
In this regard, Governor Mandanas immediately suggested that all those involved in the final survey, ocular inspection, and water quality sampling should coordinate closely to ensure a comprehensive assessment of the situation.
He also expressed gratitude to all the individuals and organizations involved in the final survey, ocular inspection, and water quality sampling for their dedication and hard work in assessing the situation.
He emphasized the importance of acknowledging the hard work and dedication of all individuals involved in the oil spill response, as their collective efforts have been instrumental in mitigating the impact on marine life and coastal communities.
Additionally, Governor Mandanas expressed his commitment to implementing stricter regulations and preventive measures to avoid similar incidents in the future.
The said oil spill affected the seas covered by the provinces of Antique, Oriental Mindoro, Palawan, and Batangas, causing significant damage to the marine ecosystem and local economies.
Efforts are currently underway to assess the extent of the damage and provide the necessary support to affected communities for their recovery and rehabilitation.
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