Vessel spills ‘chemical’ in Misamis waters

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Philippines — A white substance allegedly discharged from an international cargo vessel alarmed residents of a coastal village in Jasaan, Misamis Oriental on Saturday.

Sabas Tagarda Jr., chairman of Barangay Lower Jasaan, expressed fear the incident on Friday might ruin the village’s marine resources.

He said the substance might contaminate fish cages and the mangrove forest in the area.

Tagarda advised owners of the fish cages to harvest their produce, noting some of the fingerlings have died.

Based on their own investigation, Tagarda said a cargo ship was responsible for the spill.

Residents were discouraged from harvesting seashells or fishing in the area, as these might be unfit for human consumption.

In a text message to The STAR on Saturday, Mayor Redentor Jardin said he directed the municipal environment and natural resources office to investigate the incident.

Citing results of initial investigation, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said the white substance was not oil but detergent used in cleaning the ship.

The regional office of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) said the incident is under investigation.

“If the local government units have an ordinance banning the discharge of any substance at sea, municipal or barangay officials can file appropriate charges against the perpetrators,” Teodoro Bacolod Jr., BFAR regional director, said.