THE Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) yesterday said it is closely monitoring a fuel tanker that is partially sank off the coast of Naujan, Oriental Mindoro for possible oil spill that may affect marine biodiversity and possible risk to lives and livelihoods in the area.

After being notified of the maritime incident, the DENR immediately instructed its regional office to access to the site.

Reports said that MT Princess Princess Empress experienced engine trouble and drifted towards the vicinity waters of Naujan due to rough seas until it became half-submerged.

The Philippine Coast Guard said Princess Empress was carrying 800,000 liters of industrial fuel oil from Bataan province heading Iloilo when its engine overheated.

The DENR said it is continuously coordinating with the government of Naujan and the PCG to implement necessary actions.

“We are monitoring the site in relation to the potential marine biodiversity impacts and the possible risk to lives and livelihoods in the area due to the direction of the current and distance from the shoreline which may be affected,” it said.

“As of this time, the vessel is positioned on the eastern side of Mindoro Island at an estimated distance of eight to 12 nautical miles. Wind direction is northwards,” the DENR added.

The Department said access to the area was limited due to bad weather. Observation of the impact was limited to aerial survey only.

Meanwhile, the PCG said the 20 crew members on board have been rescued and are in good physical condition

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Joel dela Torre