DOJ assures accountability in Bataan oil spills

PREVENTIVE MEASURE. The Philippine Coast Guard installs an oil spill boom at the floodgates of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority in Barangay Tanza Uno, Navotas City on Wednesday (July 31, 2024). The oil spill from M/T Terra Nova has not yet reached the shores of Metro Manila since the sinking off Limay, Bataan six days ago. (PNA photo by Joan Bondoc)

By Benjamin Pulta, Philippine News Agency

MANILA – The Department of Justice (DOJ) on Tuesday assured a thorough investigation into the Bataan oil spills to exact accountability against those liable.

“The Department of Justice is committed to run after every single individual liable for the recent capsizing of three sea vessels, resulting in the thousands of liters of oil spilling over the bodies of water in Bataan, which also affected nearby provinces, such as Cavite and Marinduque,” the DOJ said in a statement.

“Consequently, the DOJ vows to run after not only the owners and personnel of the sunken MT Terra Nova and the two other troubled vessels but authorities, as well, who approved their seaworthiness despite the very evident red flags.”

Assistant Secretary Jose Dominic F. Clavano IV told reporters that the goal of the investigation is to find out any errors committed by individuals, or if there is a “conspiracy” in the processing of licenses.

Aside from the filing of cases, the DOJ will also aid local government units (LGUs) in compensating affected fisherfolks and residents, he said.

As a first step, the DOJ has already joined the provincial government of Cavite in their dialogues with the owners, and insurance agents of the sunken vessels.

“It is very important to note that ‘Upholding the Rule of Law’ is not merely limited to the administration of justice amongst men, but also covers safeguarding and preserving the environment and our natural resources for the use of future generations,” Justice Secretary Jesus Remulla said in a separate statement.

“Anyone who tramples upon these precious wonders of nature shall be dealt with the full extent of the law.”