Manjuyod: The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in Negros Oriental has allowed the resumption of motorboat trips to and from the White Sandbar in Manjuyod town, an official said.

According to Philippines News Agency, Lt. Marionne Abigail Enopia, commander of the Coast Guard Station Negros Oriental, mentioned in an interview that the ban was lifted late Wednesday afternoon following orders from Manjuyod Mayor Raffy Andaya to reopen the White Sandbar. Motorboats carrying tourists and other passengers are now permitted to sail to and from the Sandbar, as it is now considered safe after almost three weeks of being closed due to a wastewater spillage.

Mayor Andaya had previously closed the tourist destination, known for its dolphin-watching and other sea sports, two days after the October 26 wastewater spill into Bais Bay and nearby areas within the Ta±on Strait Protected Seascape (TSPS). The spill was caused by a breached portion of the containment lagoon of Universal Robina Corporation's (URC) Bais Distillery, which resulted in millions of gallons of spent wash leaking into the sea. This incident led to water discoloration, fish kills, and the displacement of thousands of fisherfolk.

The Ta±on Strait Protected Seascape is home to around 14 species of whales and dolphins and supports a variety of habitats, including coral reefs and mangroves. It serves as a vital fishing area for coastal communities that depend on the ocean for their livelihoods.

Lt. Enopia further noted that the breached section of the lagoon was fully sealed this week, though the height of the wall still needs to be elevated. Meanwhile, URC has not resumed operations as the investigation into the spill continues and awaits approval from government agencies, including the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.