Marcos Jr. hopes Oriental Mindoro oil spill cleanup finishes in under 4 months

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. expressed hope that the cleanup of the oil spill in Oriental Mindoro will be completed in less than four months, ideally within one month, citing the government's commitment to expedite the process.

This timeline is informed by the four-month cleanup period of the 2006 Guimaras oil spill, though Marcos noted the volume of oil spilled in Mindoro is less.

The oil spill originated from the motor tanker Princess Empress, which was carrying 800,000 liters of industrial fuel oil when it sank on February 28 due to strong waves.

The sinking has affected tourist spots, fishing sanctuaries, and maritime resources such as coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass.

He has instructed the Department of Labor and Employment and the Department of Social Welfare and Development to implement a cash-for-work program for affected fisherfolk who are currently unable to fish.

The oil spill has already impacted 10 municipalities and risks spreading to Palawan, Antique, and Romblon.

The government is closely monitoring the situation, and has received assistance and equipment from private corporations and the Japan government.