All ships, other than cargos, were ordered by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to maintain a two-kilometer distance from the shoreline of Manila Bay following reports that liquid waste found in the vicinity of the Manila Yacht Club along Roxas Boulevard originated from private vessel M/V Sarangani.
The DENR Manila Bay Coordinating Office (DENR-MBCO), along with the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), is investigating the possible oil spill, said DENR Secretary Roy Cimatu.
“We are waiting for the result of the investigation. If the owner of M/V Sarangani is found liable for this, we will impose penalty and the vessel must be rehabilitated,” Cimatu said in a briefing.
According to the DENR, the reported oil spill has already spread to about 500 meters along Manila Bay.
To prevent a similar incident from occurring, the Environment Secretary said only ships delivering sand and other essential cargos will be permitted to dock near the bay.
He noted that other vessels crossing the two-kilometer restricted zone would be automatically fined.
Cimatu clarified they are waiting for the result of the water quality analysis conducted by the DENR-MBCO before taking action against M/V Sarangani.
