Pamalakaya calls for aid for oil spill-hit fishermen

A progressive fisherfolk group, Pamalakaya, is urging the Philippine government to provide immediate financial subsidies and livelihood support to fishermen and their families affected by the oil spill in Oriental Mindoro.

The oil spill originated from the capsized motor tanker MT Princess Empress on February 28, which was carrying 800,000 liters of industrial fuel oil.

Approximately 1,200 fisherfolk and coastal residents in at least three coastal villages on Semirara Island, Caluya, have been impacted by the spill, significantly disrupting their livelihoods.

Pamalakaya emphasized the urgent need for daily provisions for the affected families whose income has been halted for over a week.

The group called for simultaneous government action to clean up the oil spill and deliver aid to the affected coastal communities.

Concerns were raised about the potential long-term damage to coral reefs and mangroves, which could lead to reduced fish catch rates and necessitate preparation for possible fish kills due to water contamination.

Pamalakaya is collaborating with its Panay chapter to assess the full impact of the spill on marine resources and coastal communities.

Following the assessment, the group plans to coordinate with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) for rehabilitation efforts.

Pamalakaya also stated that the owner of MT Princess Empress should be held accountable for compensatory damages and be required to shoulder the cleanup costs.