Cavite province has declared a no-catch zone for all types of shellfish following an oil spill from a tanker that capsized off the coast of neighboring Bataan last week, local officials said on Thursday.
The fishing ban, imposed on July 31, comes as authorities scramble to contain the environmental impact of the MT Terra Nova sinking near Lamao Point in Limay, Bataan on July 25.
Fish samples from Noveleta and Rosario in Cavite showed traces of petrochemical contamination, according to the Department of Agriculture’s Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR).
However, samples from Tanza, Cavite City, and Naic were found to be uncontaminated at the time of collection.
“As a precautionary measure, fish harvested from areas where oil slicks are observed should be deemed unsafe for human consumption,” a DA-BFAR spokesperson said.
The agency is conducting continuous monitoring of catch landings and market inspections to ensure the safety of seafood sold in local markets.
Officials are also validating the number of affected fisherfolk to provide accurate support to impacted communities.
Authorities urged the public to remain calm and stay informed through official government updates.
The full extent of the oil spill’s impact on Cavite’s fishing industry remains unclear.
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