Oil spill wreaks havoc on Oriental Mindoro tourism

The oil spill from the sunken MT Princess Empress has significantly impacted tourism in Oriental Mindoro and nearby provinces, affecting marine protected areas, resorts, and cruise tourism.

Tourism Secretary Christina G. Frasco expressed serious concern over the grave impact of the oil spill on the tourism industry, communities, businesses, and recreational activities.

Several Marine Protected Areas and beach resorts in Pola, Oriental Mindoro have been affected by the oil spill.

The spill threatens three world-class dive destinations: the Verde Island passage, Apo Reef in Mindoro, and Coron's World War II Wrecks and Philippine Dugong.

Coastal clean-up operations are underway in affected areas as an immediate solution.

The effects of the oil spill have reached Caluya in Antique, and Boracay Island in Aklan is preparing for potential impact.

The DOT is coordinating with various agencies and local government units to monitor the situation and implement mitigating measures.