A Philippine tanker carrying 1.4 million liters of industrial fuel oil capsized and sank in Manila Bay, posing a significant threat of a major oil spill. Authorities are working quickly to contain the spill, which has already spread several kilometers.
The MT Terra Nova was en route to Iloilo when it sank near Limay municipality. The Coast Guard warned that a full oil leak would be the largest in Philippine history, potentially affecting Manila and its shoreline. Sixteen of the 17 crew members have been rescued, but a search continues for the missing member amidst strong winds and high waves.
The Coast Guard is investigating the cause of the capsizing, with heavy rains from Typhoon Gaemi and the monsoon possibly playing a role. Marine environmental protection personnel are deployed to contain the oil slick, which is being carried by strong currents.
The incident evokes memories of the 2023 oil spill in Mindoro, where a tanker carrying 800,000 liters of fuel oil contaminated waters and beaches, harming the fishing and tourism industries. The 2006 Guimaras oil spill also caused significant damage to marine life and local fishing grounds.
