Bakas ng oil spill mula sa MT Princess Empress, umabot na sa Calapan, Oriental Mindoro | 24 Oras

Oil Spill Reaches Calapan, Oriental Mindoro

Reports indicate that oil from the sunken MT Princess Empress has reached Calapan, Oriental Mindoro. Traces of fuel/oil were reportedly found along the coastal areas, described as tar balls/oil residue in the sand.

Response and Containment Efforts

• The Philippine Coast Guard and local responders reportedly conducted immediate cleanup.
• Residents and the local government reportedly set up an improvised oil spill boom made from straw to help contain the spread.
• The spill in Calapan is described as smaller than in other areas, but it has still disrupted local life.

Impact on Local Livelihoods

• In Barangay Navota, fishing activities were restricted, affecting livelihoods.

Worsening Situation in Oriental Mindoro

Local authorities say the number of affected areas in Oriental Mindoro has been increasing. The provincial governor reportedly expressed disappointment over the worsening situation.

DOJ Requests Clarification on the Investigation

The Department of Justice (DOJ) is calling for clarification regarding the ongoing investigation into the sinking. The DOJ specifically asks Marine/Maritime industry representatives to explain details, citing that the Marina issues permits for ships to sail.

Allegations on Vessel Background and Condition

Investigators are also reviewing allegations about the vessel’s history and condition. A person identifying himself as part of a team allegedly involved in converting an older ship (MT Dorothy) into the Princess Empress has reportedly approached the NBI, asking that the group walk through their claims and provide supporting documentation about the ship and the conversion processes.

Conflicting Build History and Marina’s Role

The controversy includes conflicting statements regarding the vessel’s construction:

• An earlier claim stated the vessel was built in 2020 in Navotas.
• The ship’s certificate of Philippine registry reportedly indicated construction in 2022 at a shipyard in Mariveles, Bataan.

The Marina is expected to investigate and cooperate with the DOJ.

Possible Liability for the Owner

The Justice Secretary warned that the owner, RDC Rail(ed) Marine Services, could face civil and criminal liability if it is found that their claims are false. RDC previously:

• denied that the ship was old, and later
• said they complied with requirements, were certified accordingly, were registered with local agencies, and were classified as tankers.

Focus of Government Action

The report notes that the government’s response is centered on mitigation and cleanup operations in affected coastal communities.

Presenters / Contributors

• Sandra Aginaldo
• Alias Dodong (identified in the report as the person making/relating claims to the NBI)
• Justice Secretary (name not provided in the subtitles)
• NBI (agency cited; no individual named)
• GMA Integrated News (cited source; no individual named)
• Philippine Coast Guard (agency; no individual named)
• Oriental Mindoro Governor (position cited; no name provided)