Philippines Begins Critical Oil Retrieval Operation from Sunken Tanker

The Philippines has started retrieving 1.4 million liters of industrial fuel oil from a sunken tanker in Manila Bay. This critical operation aims to prevent environmental disaster and protect marine life. Local fishing has been restricted, and authorities urge caution in fish consumption from affected areas due to contamination risks.

The Philippines has initiated a crucial operation to retrieve 1.4 million liters of industrial fuel oil from a sunken tanker in Manila Bay, addressing weeks of environmental concerns. The Philippine Coast Guard confirmed on Wednesday that a private company has commenced the transfer of the cargo, a process earlier estimated to take about a week.

The Filipino-flagged tanker capsized and sank on July 25 during adverse weather conditions caused by Typhoon Gaemi, resulting in one crew member's death. The vessel, carrying eight tanks of industrial fuel oil, now rests 34 meters below the surface.

Authorities spent three weeks controlling the initial spillage and installing necessary equipment for the removal operation. The Coast Guard had previously warned that a large-scale release of the cargo could lead to an "environmental catastrophe" and potentially the country's worst oil spill.

While the Coast Guard reports minimal spillage so far, local governments have imposed "no-catch" zones, affecting tens of thousands of fishermen in the area. The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources has urged public caution when consuming fish from affected areas due to potential petrochemical contamination.

This incident recalls one of the Philippines' worst oil spills in February 2023, when a tanker carrying 800,000 liters of industrial fuel oil sank off Mindoro Island, severely impacting local fishing and tourism industries.

The current retrieval operation in Manila Bay is critical not only for preventing immediate environmental damage but also for safeguarding the region's rich marine biodiversity. As the operation progresses, authorities remain vigilant, balancing the urgent need for oil removal with careful execution to minimize further environmental risks.