The Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) issued its second update on the Bataan oil spill on August 1.

The agency has been observing the condition of fishing zones that might be affected by the spill, following the capsizing and sinking of the motor tanker (MT) Terra Nova near Lamao Point in Limay, Bataan, on July 25.

Ongoing fish sampling is taking place in affected regions within Region 3, CALABARZON, and the National Capital Region (NCR) for sensory assessments to detect traces of oil and grease. Additionally, laboratory tests are being performed to check for the presence of harmful substances, specifically polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH), to ensure that fish and seafood from these areas are uncontaminated and safe for consumption.

Sensory evaluation results from fish samples taken in Noveleta and Rosario in Cavite indicated some level of petrochemical tainting, even before any oil slicks were observed in those locations.

Meanwhile, fish samples from Tanza, Cavite City, and Naic showed no signs of petrochemical contamination at the time of sampling.

Despite this, the agency advises that fish caught from areas with visible oil slicks should be considered unsafe for human consumption as a precaution to prevent food poisoning from contaminated seafood.

On July 30, 2024, Bataan’s local government enforced a fishing ban in Limay, Bataan. In response to the oil spill, Cavite province declared a no-catch zone for all shellfish, including mussels, blue crabs, mud crabs, and clams, on July 31, 2024.

Currently, catch landing monitoring and market inspections are underway to ensure the safety and quality of fish and seafood sold in local markets.

Ground validation continues in affected areas, alongside the verification of impacted fisherfolk using the FishR database, to ensure accurate documentation and support for affected communities in collaboration with local government units.

DA-BFAR calls on fisherfolk and the public to stay calm and follow updates provided by government authorities, including DA-BFAR.

📷 BFAR Central Office