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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider Luzon devider Ship operator faces up to P1 M penalty over molasses spill

Ship operator faces up to P1 M penalty over molasses spill

Published Aug 9, 2024 06:22 am

BACOLOD CITY – The city government of Sagay in Negros Occidental said it is committed to holding people responsible and accountable in the suspected molasses spill that affected approximately 1.3 hectares of the Sagay Marine Reserve.

According to the city government, the operator of MT Mary Queen of Charity may face penalties ranging from P200,000 to P1 million for violating the Expanded National Integrated Protected Areas System (ENIPAS) Act of 2018.

MOLASSES SHIP.jpeg

MT Mary Queen of Charity docked at the Sagay feeder port in Sagay City, Negros Occidental on August 7. (Photo courtesy of Ronald Villar/City Information and Tourism Office)

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG)-northern Negros Occidental conducted hull inspection on the vessel on Thursday, August 8, a day after water discoloration was observed around the ship on Wednesday morning, August 7.

Based on the initial inspection of the PCG, the marine vessel is compliant with safety regulations and that its hull is intact.

However, there were indications of possible negligence by the crew during the loading of the molasses from a lorry truck to the vessel which is subject to a thorough investigation.

Commander Jansen Benjamin, head of PCG-northern Negros Occidental, said they are waiting the assessment of the marine environmental officer on possible violations.

Authorities are also awaiting the result of water samples taken from the affected area which is expected to be released on August 16.

Sagay Mayor Narciso Javelosa Jr. said that they are working tirelessly to address this concern and prevent any long-term damage.

Javelosa said they are closely monitoring the situation of nearby coastal communities, particularly fisherfolk. 

The city has prepared assistance should the need arise as the welfare of the residents remains a top priority amid the pending investigation of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR).

Javelosa affirmed the city’s dedication to transparency and effective response. “Our goal is to ensure the safety of our marine environment and the well-being of our people,” he said.

The city is exploring additional measures to prevent future incidents.

The PCG had earlier said that the molasses spill is not a cause for alarm. As of Thursday, Benjamin said that water discoloration in the area is not visible anymore due to tidal movement.

Despite this, the PCG is still on guard and continuously monitoring the situation. 

Related Tags

Negros Occidental PCG Sagay City Molasses
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