Oil Spill Threat in Philippines: Sunken Tanker Sparks Environmental Fears
Authorities in the Philippines are racing to contain an emerging oil spill after a tanker carrying industrial fuel capsized near Manila, raising fears of a major environmental disaster.
The vessel, MT Terra Nova, was transporting approximately 1.4 million litres of industrial fuel oil when it sank off the coast of Manila Bay during severe weather caused by Typhoon Gaemi. One crew member died in the حادث, while 16 others were rescued.
According to the Philippine Coast Guard, a small amount of oil has begun leaking from the submerged tanker. While officials described the leak as “minimal” so far, they warned that the situation could escalate rapidly if the entire cargo spills into the sea.
The oil slick has already expanded significantly, now covering an estimated 12 to 14 kilometres across the bay—an area vital to local fishing and tourism industries.
Divers inspecting the wreck found signs of leakage from the vessel’s valves. Authorities plan to begin siphoning the remaining fuel from the tanker, which lies about 34 metres below the surface, in an effort to prevent further contamination.
Containment measures are already in place, including floating barriers and dispersants deployed by multiple coastguard vessels. A recovery ship is also en route to assist in removing the oil.
Environmental group Greenpeace Philippines has urged immediate action, warning that the sunken tanker represents a “ticking time bomb” for nearby coastal communities. Local residents, particularly fishermen, fear severe economic and environmental consequences if the spill worsens.
The Philippines has faced similar incidents in the past, including a 2023 oil spill near Mindoro that took months to clean up, highlighting the ongoing risks posed by maritime fuel transport in the region.