Press Release - Opening Statement of Senator Cynthia Villar during the Public Hearing/Inquiry, In Aid of Legislation On the Oil Spill From M/T Terra Nova In Limay, Bataan

Again, good morning everyone.

This is the Committee's second hearing on Proposed Senate Resolution No. 1084 directing this Committee to conduct an inquiry, in aid of legislation, on the oil spill from M/T Terra Nova in Limay, Bataan on July 25, 2024, which is detrimental to the marine ecosystem, biodiversity, health, food security, and livelihood of the people in affected areas, filed by Senator Francis "Tol" N. Tolentino. Related to this incident is the capsizing of MT Jason Bradley and MV Mirola 1. Subpoenas were issued to the owners of M/Tkr Jason Bradley, Mr. Romnick Ponestas, and MV Mirola 1, Ms. Mary Jane Ubaldo, to require their presence in today's hearing.

To recap, during our first public hearing held a month ago on August 14, 2024, the Committee asked to be enlightened as to the cause of the oil spill. Commandant Admiral Gavan and Captain Marfil gave an overview on the incident and their strategies. MARINA, through Administrator Malaluan, gave a report on MT Terranova's vessel documents, and the actions that MARINA has taken. Both PCG and MARINA could not explain in detail the cause of the incident because their joint investigation was still on-going then and would take six months to complete. However, they committed to submit to the Committee a preliminary report for today's hearing.

On other hand, NBI, who was conducting a parallel investigation, has committed to submit a progress report within two weeks.

In addition, the Committee also asked about the impact of the oil spill and the relief efforts to the communities greatly affected. In response:

1. The DENR, through Secretary Loyzaga, and the EMB, through Director Caancan, reported on their incident command system, water quality and air quality assessment, biodiversity management, and initial mitigation measures, which include the placement of oil spill booms.

2. The DA-BFAR, though Assistant Director Atty. Encarnacion, reported on the effects of the oil spill on the fisheries based on sensory evaluation.

3. The DOLE, through Secretary Laguesma, reported on the assistance given to residents affected by the oil spill through its emergency employment program or the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating