MT Princess Empress owner apologizes for oil spill, commits to cleanup

The owner of the sunken MT Princess Empress, RDC Reield Marine Services, has apologized for the oil spill and is committed to minimizing its impact and cleaning it up.

The company is working with its insurers to arrange compensation for affected residents and will advise them on submitting claims.

The oil spill, which originated in Oriental Mindoro on February 28, has reached the shores of Palawan and threatens areas in the Visayas.

In Oriental Mindoro, fishermen and other residents relying on the sea for their livelihood were most affected, with warnings against fishing activities issued.

The Department of Tourism noted that tourist spots in affected areas are also being threatened.

RDC Reield Marine Services is collaborating with the Philippine government, including the Philippine Coast Guard and local government units, international experts from ITOPF, and a French oil spill response company, Le Floch Depollution, to manage the oil spill.

A three-phase plan is being implemented: Phase One focuses on emergency measures and at-sea containment, Phase Two involves detailed response plan development, and Phase Three focuses on delivering a clean-up plan with stakeholder engagement.