Oil spill leads to ecological deterioration of land and marine environments. Man-made activities related to oil exploration, industries, and transportation could lead to oil spill in the workplace and in the environment. While we heard many stories of its effects in the ecology and livelihood of fishermen, let me share two incidents that are almost heart-breaking.

 

An oil spill may occur when a pipeline breaks. A pipeline transports oil from one area to the other via pressure. Last April, thousands of oil gallons have spilled from a pipeline in Texas. According to electronic calculations conducted by the US National Response Center, more than 700 barrels (30,000 gallons) had been lost already (RT, 5 April 2013). 

 

Leaking of oil compartment may also cause a severe oil spill. Ship collision may also be a reason for oil spill. Here in Cebu province, we have recently witnessed a ship collision. The town of Cordova was declared by the mayor to be in a state of calamity. An estimated 6.5 million pesos worth of mangroves were "fully damaged" by the incident. A news agency and observers reported that some plants were covered from roots to leaves by oil

Fisherfolks are directly affected with the incident. None or only few fish (if lucky) are expected to be caught in the meantime. Many dead fish float in the area. It was disclosed that "the sunken ship was loaded with 120,000 liters of bunker fuel, 20,000 liters of lube oil, and 20,000 liters of Diesel."

 

The more tragic story is that more than 80 people have died and more than 50 others were still missing last August 16. The fisherfolks might have temporarily lost their livelihood but the lives of those we passed will never be returned.

 

We demand a thorough investigation. We demand a fair and just compensation not only for the lost livelihood and lives but also to the damaged marine and terrestrial environments. We demand not only monetary compensation but also social responsibility from the companies involved.

 

We are not vindictive. We only seek justice. 

Note: Links will direct you to cited materials.