Ethanol spill hits 10 barangays in Negros Oriental

A chemical spill from a food manufacturing company's collapsed dike in North Bais Bay, Negros Oriental, has impacted 10 coastal barangays and poses risks to marine life and livelihoods.

The spill, which occurred on October 24, involved ethanol from one of the company's containment facilities, leading to discolored seawater and the observation of dead fish.

The Bais City government has ordered the ethanol distillery plant to cease operations and suspended coastal activities like swimming and dolphin watching.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources issued a warning about the potential risks of the ethanol spill to marine biodiversity, fisheries, and local livelihoods.

The company responsible is currently rehabilitating the affected lagoon and has pledged financial assistance to fisherfolk in Bais City and Manjuyod.