Oil spill threatens Verde Island Passage, center of marine biodiversity

Experts are concerned that an oil spill from the sunken motor tanker MT Princess Empress off Mindoro Oriental could reach the Verde Island Passage (VIP), recognized as the world's center of marine biodiversity.

The VIP, located between Batangas and Mindoro, serves as a critical breeding ground and habitat for numerous marine species, including the highest concentration of coastal fishes, corals, crustaceans, molluscs, seagrasses, and mangroves.

The weakening Amihan winds are expected to allow ocean currents to dictate the oil's flow towards the VIP by March 16, according to an oil spill trajectory model by UP-MSI.

The potential impact of the oil spill on marine life could significantly affect food sources and livelihoods in the region, with the VIP producing around P1 billion annually just from fishing.

The VIP spans over 1.4 million hectares across five provinces and is a busy shipping corridor, not under the sole jurisdiction of any local government.

The Philippine Coast Guard is collaborating with UP-MSI and stated that initial observations suggest the oil tank may still be closed, with the flow not being continuous.

Confirmation is pending regarding the type of fuel and the extent of the leak, while the provincial government of Batangas is actively monitoring containment efforts.