The oil spill from the sunken motor tanker Terranova in Bataan may extend to the coasts of Bulacan and Cavite, according to the University of the Philippines Marine Science Institute (UP MSI).
Forecast and Conditions
In a bulletin issued Sunday evening, UP MSI, with assistance from concerned government agencies, based its forecast on weather patterns and conditions, including wind direction. The Philippine Space Agency confirmed oil slick sightings northward towards Bulacan, observed on July 26 at 5:40 AM. UP MSI warned that coastal areas of Cavite City could also be affected due to an eastward change in forecasted winds as of July 28.
Caution on Forecast Models
UP MSI emphasized caution when using these models due to inherent uncertainties from assumptions and limitations. These models aim to inform the public and guide response measures.
Oil Spill Details
The Philippine Space Agency released a map on Friday detailing the potential extent of the oil spill, which covered an area of 14.4 square kilometers as of 5:40 AM. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. conducted an aerial inspection on Saturday and ordered the creation of an inter-agency task force to address the spill.
Incident Summary
The incident occurred on July 25 when the MT Terranova capsized and sank 3.6 nautical miles east off Lamao Point in Limay town. One crew member died, and 16 others were rescued. The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) confirmed leaks from tanks carrying 1.4 million liters of industrial fuel oil. Nine affected tank valves have been sealed, and monitoring continues.
Additionally, another sunken ship, the MTKR Jason Bradley, carrying an unspecified quantity of diesel cargo, was also found to have leaks in Bataan.