Members of the Philippine Coast Guard deploy containment booms off Limay, Bataan, on Thursday, August 1, 2024, in order to prevent the spread of oil leaking from the sunken MTKR Terranova. (Courtesy: Philippine Coast Guard)
MANILA, (PIA) — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Thursday, September 12, vowed to hold accountable those responsible for the oil spill incident caused by the sunken MTKR Terranova off Bataan earlier this year, which affected the livelihood of thousands of fisherfolk and their families.
The President visited Navotas City to personally distribute assistance to fisherfolk affected by the spill, also assuring the public that fish and seafood are now safe for consumption.
Speaking at the Navotas Sports Complex, Marcos emphasized that investigations are ongoing to determine the circumstances surrounding the spill.
“We are actively seeking answers regarding the involvement of the vessels in oil smuggling and why unregistered ships were operating in our waters,” he said. “We will ensure that those responsible are held accountable for their actions.”
The Chief Executive, meanwhile, praised local officials and emphasized the government’s swift response to the incident.
“This incident not only harmed our waters but severely impacted the livelihoods of thousands of fisherfolk,” he said. “The government acted quickly to provide aid and address the oil leak.”
The President reported that the Philippine Coast Guard has successfully sealed the oil leak and removed nearly 1.4 million liters of oil from the waters.
He noted that operations are nearing completion, with only water remaining in the affected area.
Marcos also reassured the community that over 8,600 fisherfolk in Navotas will receive aid through the Presidential Assistance to Fisherfolk and Families (PAFF) program.
Additionally, the Office of House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez distributed 10 kilos of rice to each attendee.
“This assistance is not just a symbol of support; it reflects our commitment to ensuring that we do not abandon our fellow citizens during difficult times,” he said.
The President also highlighted infrastructure improvements in Navotas aimed at preventing future flooding and encouraged local participation in clean-up and waste management initiatives.
He concluded by urging the community to unite in overcoming challenges and building a resilient future. (AVS/PIA-NCR)
