Ilocos norte: The Department of Agriculture (DA) announced its deployment of teams from the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) to monitor and prepare assistance for fishers impacted by an oil spill in Badoc, Ilocos Norte. Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. emphasized that the welfare of fishers and food safety are top priorities.

According to Philippines News Agency, Tiu Laurel highlighted the oil spill's threat to marine resources and the livelihoods of fishing communities relying on coastal waters. He stressed the importance of containing the spill's impact on fisheries, ensuring seafood safety, and providing immediate assistance to affected fisherfolk if the situation deteriorates.

The DA has prepositioned assistance measures, including food packs and temporary livelihood support, for disruptions in fishing activities. Initial assessments indicate that around 135 registered fisherfolk and 30 fishing vessels in Badoc might be affected.

Agriculture Undersecretary for Fisheries Drusila Bayate reported that BFAR has intensified monitoring and assessment activities to evaluate the contamination's extent. Although no fish kills, abnormal fish behavior, or contaminated fishery products have been reported, a precautionary approach is being taken. Continuous monitoring, seafood safety testing, and fisheries impact assessments are ongoing to detect and address any emerging risks promptly.

Initial reports suggest that the cargo vessel LCT MSCI 1 was not carrying crude oil or large volumes of bunker fuel, potentially limiting damage to marine resources. The vessel, bound for Calayan Island in Cagayan from Currimao, Ilocos Norte, encountered rough seas due to the southwest monsoon last June 8. Water reportedly entered the vessel's ballast tanks, causing it to tilt and partially capsize near Badoc's coastal waters.