Binalbagan: The Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Environment Management Bureau (DENR-EMB) in Western Visayas has issued an interim cease and desist order (CDO) against the Binalbagan-Isabela Sugar Co. (Biscom) Inc. for its discharge of molasses into the Binalbagan River. This action follows a significant spill from the sugar mill that occurred on April 19, contaminating the river. The order, signed by EMB-6 Regional Director Ramar Mel Pascua on April 22, mandates Biscom to stop its molasses discharge into the perimeter canal that leads to the river.
According to Philippines News Agency, EMB-6 chief legal officer Wilma Lagance confirmed the issuance of the order during a media interview on Thursday. The interim CDO is initially effective for seven days unless confirmed by the Pollution Adjudication Board (PAB) or the Secretary, at which point it would become a regular CDO.
Pascua noted that despite mitigation efforts, including redirecting the overflow into an ash canal system and placing sandbags, molasses continued to flow into the storm drain. The decision to issue the CDO was based on Section 8, Rule V of PAB Resolution 2021-04, which allows for immediate orders if pollutant discharge poses an immediate threat to life, public health, safety, or welfare.
The ongoing discharge from Biscom, combined with its reliance on a temporary molasses pond of unverified capacity, presents a significant threat to the Binalbagan River. Pascua emphasized the need for immediate action to prevent further environmental damage.
Before the incident, the molasses pond contained approximately 4,980 tons. After the spill, 2,400 tons remained, with Biscom reporting 2,570 tons recovered and an estimated loss of 10 tons. These figures are pending verification.
