CEED reports coal spills in Sorsogon, Zambales due to Tropical Storm Trami

The Center for Energy, Ecology, and Development (CEED) reported two coal spills in Sorsogon and Zambales due to Tropical Storm Trami on Monday.

CEED urged the government to expedite its transition from fossil fuels following the environmental damage caused by these spills, emphasizing that severe weather events exacerbate risks associated with fossil fuel projects.

In Sorsogon, a coal barge spill has killed fish and destroyed marine ecosystems, affecting local livelihoods.

The grounded barge in Zambales carries 11,000 metric tons of coal and poses a threat to Masinloc-Oyon Bay Protected Seascape, an important site for marine biodiversity.

CEED highlighted that accidents involving coal could lead to worse climate disasters and directly pollute the environments and communities hosting fossil fuel projects.

The group also recalled the 2023 oil spill involving MT Princess Empress near Oriental Mindoro and called for increasing restrictions against toxic pollution and empowering coastal communities to protect their marine environments.