Photo credit: Senate PH

Senator Cynthia A. Villar isn't holding back when it comes to addressing the serious environmental damage caused by the recent oil spill in Bataan. During a Senate hearing, Villar demanded the immediate filing of cases against the owners and operators of the sunken vessels responsible for the spill: MTKR Terranova, MV Mirola 1, and MT Jason Bradley. These ships, which sank last July off the coast of Bataan, have left behind a trail of environmental devastation that's affecting both marine life and the livelihoods of coastal communities.

“The oil spill has caused extensive economic and environmental damage, threatening our marine ecosystems and biodiversity," Villar stated. She also pointed out the spill's impact on local fisherfolk, whose livelihoods are being threatened by the contamination of their fishing grounds.

During the hearing, key officials, including Martin Jose Despi from the Environmental Management Bureau and Commodore Arnaldo Lim of the Philippine Coast Guard, committed to filing charges within the month. The allegations against the shipowners range from leaving port without clearance and lacking operational documents to causing extensive environmental harm.

The hearing, part of the Senate's investigation into the incident, was triggered by Senate Resolution No. 1084, filed by Majority Leader Francis Tolentino. The resolution seeks to uncover the cause of the oil spill, assess the government's response, and explore potential connections to oil smuggling.

Villar echoed Tolentino's concerns, emphasizing that the government needs to step up and address the neglect that led to this disaster. "Our fisherfolk are suffering, and it’s time for real action," she said.

As the investigation continues, all eyes are on the responsible parties, who could soon face legal consequences for the irreparable damage done to Bataan’s waters.