Environment Secretary Maria Antonia “Toni” Yulo-Loyzaga on Thursday, March 2, said she will personally go onsite to determine the extent of the oil spillage in Oriental Mindoro. “I will be onsite tomorrow (March 3) to determine the extent of this spillage and how we can actually help the towns of Oriental Mindoro better,” the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) chief said in a video message sent to reporters. “We want to extend personally and professionally the DENR’S full support in cooperation with all those that have been affected,” she continued. According to Loyzaga, their topmost priority is to determine the extent of the spillage and contain it in order for the oil not to spread further. “Secondly, hasten the cleanup to prevent further impacts on coastal and marine biodiversity especially as well on the livelihoods of the local community,” she said. Acknowledging that such efforts will require a number of personnel, the DENR chief vowed to support the affected local governments and communities. “DENR is committed to support the local government and all our communities in restoring, and hopefully regenerating the affected coastal and marine ecosystems,” she said. Based on the assessment of the DENR as of 12 p.m., March 2, it showed that oil spill has already reached the municipal shores of of “Pola, Pinamalayan, Gloria, and Bongabong.” “The oil spill appears to be flowing southwards towards the southern part of Oriental Mindoro,” said Loyzaga. On Feb. 28, the Philippine Coast Guard reported an oil spill from the motor tanker (MT) Princess Empress which capsized the coast of Naujan, Oriental Mindoro earlier that day. Reports said it was carrying 800,000 liters of industrial fuel oil as cargo.