Binay urges collective action on Mindoro oil spill

Senator Nancy Binay is urging for a collective action from government and non-government groups to manage the escalating oil spill in Mindoro and prevent its spread to neighboring provinces.

The senator expressed concern over the impact of the oil spill on Mindoro, a popular summer tourist destination, noting the significant number of booking cancellations for the upcoming Holy Week.

Binay emphasized the urgency of the situation, highlighting that thousands of families and their livelihoods, particularly fishermen, are already affected by the spillage, with dozens falling ill.

She warned of the alarming possibility that the oil spill could reach Batangas and Palawan if immediate and organized action is not taken, noting that the MT Princess Empress was carrying 800,000 liters of industrial fuel oil when it sank on February 28.

To address the immediate economic impact, Binay suggested utilizing the Department of Social Welfare and Development's (DSWD) Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program to assist displaced workers.

She also proposed engaging tourism workers, community-based organizations, and other affected individuals in cleanup efforts and the installation of barriers to mitigate environmental and public health risks.