Oil spill detected in Bataan waters

MANILA, Philippines — Spill booms have been deployed in the waters off Mariveles, Bataan after some 25 liters of used oil were spilled into the sea on Thursday, according to the Philippine Coast Guard.

The PCG said the oil spill affected 500 square meters of coastal waters in Barangay Ipag.

Initial investigation showed the substance originated from a washing activity, although authorities have yet to determine the source or the place where it came from.

The PCG deployed seven absorbent booms and 2,200 absorbent pads to support the cleanup operation.

Aside from PCG personnel, the provincial disaster risk reduction and management office deployed their workers to help in the cleanup operation.

Up to 800 kilos of oil-contaminated debris have been collected in the area.

The debris was placed in 40 sacks for proper storage pending results of investigation.

The PCG resumed the cleanup operation yesterday. It has yet to assess the extent of damage caused by the incident to surrounding coastal communities.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources directed officials of DENR-Central Luzon and environmental management groups to assist the PCG in the cleanup operation.