DA deploys BFAR personnel to oil spill site in Ilocos Norte

MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Agriculture (DA) has deployed fisheries personnel and prepared aid for coastal communities affected by the oil spill in Badoc, Ilocos Norte.

“The oil spill is a serious concern because it threatens not only marine resources but also the livelihoods of fishing communities that depend on healthy coastal waters,” Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said in a statement on Thursday.

READ: Grounded cargo ship triggers oil spill in Ilocos Norte

“Our priority is to contain any potential impact on fisheries, ensure seafood safety, and provide immediate assistance to affected fisherfolk should the situation worsen,” Tiu Laurel added.

The oil spill occurred on June 8 after cargo vessel LCT MSCI 1 encountered rough seas en route from Currimao, Ilocos Norte to Calayan Island, Cagayan.

Water flooded the vessel’s ballast tanks, causing it to tilt and partially capsize off Barangay La Virgen Milagrosa in Badoc.

“Initial reports suggest the vessel was not carrying crude oil or large volumes of bunker fuel, which could help limit environmental damage and simplify cleanup operations,” the DA said.

The DA said it is monitoring the situation with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) teams supporting the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG)-led response.

It directed BFAR’s regional office to coordinate with DOLE Ilocos and enroll affected fishers in the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) project for cash for work.

The agency is also coordinating with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) for the distribution of food packs.

Likewise, the DA is ready to provide food packs, temporary livelihood assistance, and other support if the oil spill disrupts fishing activities.

Despite no reported fish kills, Agriculture Undersecretary Drusila Esther Bayate said BFAR has stepped up monitoring to assess contamination and its impact on fishery resources.

“While there have been no reports of fish kills, abnormal fish behavior, or contaminated fishery products so far, we are taking a precautionary approach,” Bayate said.

“Continuous monitoring, seafood safety testing, and fisheries impact assessments are underway to ensure that any emerging risks are detected and addressed immediately,” she added.

Initial assessments showed the oil spill could affect at least 135 registered fisherfolk and 30 fishing vessels operating in Badoc. /pai INQ