THE Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) yesterday responded to an oil spill at a shipyard in New Washington, Aklan.
The PCG said the leakage at the Metallica Shipyard in Barangay Polo, New Washington, was reported at 10:42 a.m. by the shipyard owner, Eng. Jonathan Salvador.
“Investigation revealed that the oil leak came from Barge 102 (not operating) docked at the shipyard area,” the PCG said in a statement.
The PCG could not immediately say the extent of the oil spill.
It said it had dispatched personnel to the area to help in the recovery of the spilled oil.
“The PCG team conducted manual collection, while shipyard employees used heavy equipment to haul oil-contaminated debris,” the PCG said.
It said the shipyard hired 39 additional workers to assist in the oil and debris recovery.
The PCG also said it has discussed “response strategies” with the local government and requested the local health office to assist in ensuring the safety of responders.
“The PCG and Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office also surveyed the river at Barangay Poblacion for oil spill monitoring and found traces of oil sheen,” the PCG said.
“During high tide, the PCG response team and shipyard personnel contained oily mixture and laid absorbent pads and absorbent booms,” it added.
It said the PCG and local government officials are closely monitoring the situation in the area.
