Fisherfolk groups called for immediate aid and livelihood assistance for those affected by the oil spill after a vessel carrying 1.4 million liters of industrial oil capsized in Bataan during the onslaught of Typhoon Carina (international name: Gaemi)

“With the current ban on fishing in areas affected by the oil spill and in places it is expected to reach, how will we ensure daily food, livelihood, and other needs for our families?” said Pagkakaisa ng mga Samahan ng Mangingisda (PANGISDA) in a statement.

Michael Boletres, a fisherfolk from Limay, Bataan, reported that although they have received some relief goods from the local government, the five kilos of rice and a few cans of food will last only a few days.

“We don’t know where we will find food for our children in a few days. And with school starting soon, it’s very difficult,” Boletres said.

He added that it would take months before they could resume fishing as before because their regular fishing ground is where the ship sank.

“Earlier, we caught one and a half kilos, but it’s still difficult to sell. We only sold the three kilos we had for 180 pesos,” Boletres said.

Limay Mayor Nelson David confirmed that while they have not banned fishing outright, fishermen are only allowed to fish within 4 kilometers of the shore.

The Bureau of Aquatic Resources and Fisheries (BFAR) estimated on Monday that 11,000 fisherfolk in Bataan province have been affected by the oil spill.

The University of the Philippines Marine Science Institute (UP MSI) predicted that the oil spill would reach the towns of Noveleta, Rosario, Tanza, Naic, and Ternate by July 29, and the Metro Manila shores by July 30.

The national fisherfolk group Pambansang Lakas ng Kilusang Mamamalakaya ng Pilipinas (PAMALAKAYA) said that around 29,000 fisherfolk in seven coastal towns would be affected if the oil spill continues spreading across the province.

“The fishermen are deeply concerned that their products can no longer be sold due to oil contamination. This is a major blow to the fishermen of Cavite, who are still struggling from the damage caused by Typhoon Carina and the southwest monsoon just last week,” said Ronnel Arambulo, PAMALAKAYA Vice Chairperson.

On Tuesday, July 30, Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) officials confirmed to reporters that SL Harbor Bulk Terminal Corporation, a subsidiary of San Miguel Shipping and Lighterage Corporation, had chartered the MTKR TerraNova to carry 1.4 million liters of industrial fuel oil to Iloilo.

The PCG also confirmed they are coordinating solely with Shogun Ships Company Incorporated (SSCI), the ship owner.

“Our focus today is on responding to and salvaging the ship, but we will definitely file the necessary case. We need to conduct an investigation first to determine if the owner will be held liable,” said Lt. Michael John Encina of the Philippine Coast Guard during a press briefing on Wednesday.

Fisherfolk groups also demanded a thorough investigation into the incident, stringent enforcement of maritime regulations to prevent future disasters, and accountability from the owner of the capsized ship. They are calling for compensation for the environmental damage and the impact on local fisheries.

“We call on our local government units (LGUs) to find a way for the ship owner to pay for the damages,” said Boletres.