Bais: The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in the Negros Island Region (NIR) is awaiting the results of ongoing investigations and laboratory analyses from various groups before deciding on possible legal action regarding the wastewater spill in the Ta±on Strait Protective Seascape (TSPS). DENR-NIR Regional Director Charlie Fabre emphasized the importance of consolidating reports from both government and private sector groups to determine the basis for their next move.
According to Philippines News Agency, Fabre assured that the Universal Robina Corporation (URC) is cooperating with the investigation and has not resumed operations yet, pending the go-signal from the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB). The EMB had issued a cease and desist order against URC following the spent wash spill last month. Fabre suggested that water samples from the 17-hectare lagoon, where the spillage originated, be tested for heavy metals to ensure fairness to URC.
Fabre stated that comparing these results with water samples from the affected sea areas will help determine whether the spillage contained heavy metals. He noted that other sources, such as agricultural runoff from the mountains, could also introduce harmful heavy metals into the sea. The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) has yet to release the results of its heavy metal tests, according to Fabre.
BFAR 7 (Central Visayas) has partially allowed the resumption of fishing activities in the Bais City and Manjuyod area after water and fish test results showed acceptable parameters. However, the agency still prohibits the collection and consumption of shellfish and 'alamang' (small shrimp) due to high concentrations of plankton that could trigger a harmful algal bloom.
The investigation into the wastewater spill, which contaminated a large portion of the seas off Bais City and Manjuyod town and displaced thousands of fisherfolk, involves the Silliman University Institute of Environmental and Marine Sciences (IEMS), the Coast Guard, BFAR, and DENR. Fabre mentioned that a multi-sectoral meeting would be held once the reports are in, allowing the DENR to take appropriate legal action against the firm.
Meanwhile, Fabre reported efforts to double-check the breached wall of the lagoon, previously reported to be fixed, following new leakage reports. He confirmed that the 17-hectare lagoon will no longer be used for wastewater containment.
