MANILA — The Department of Agriculture (DA) has deployed fisheries personnel and prepared assistance for coastal communities following an oil spill caused by a partially capsized cargo vessel off Badoc, Ilocos Norte.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. said the agency is coordinating with response efforts and has sent personnel from the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) to assist operations led by the Philippine Coast Guard.

“The oil spill is a serious concern because it threatens not only marine resources but also the livelihoods of fishing communities that depend on healthy coastal waters. Our priority is to contain any potential impact on fisheries, ensure seafood safety, and provide immediate assistance to affected fisherfolk should the situation worsen,” Tiu Laurel said.

The agriculture chief said initial information indicated that the vessel was not transporting crude oil or substantial amounts of bunker fuel, which may help reduce environmental impacts and ease cleanup efforts.

The incident happened on June 8 when cargo vessel LCT MSCI 1 encountered rough sea conditions caused by the southwest monsoon, or Habagat, while traveling from Currimao, Ilocos Norte to Calayan Island in Cagayan. According to reports, seawater entered the vessel’s ballast tanks, causing it to list and partially capsize near the coastal waters of Barangay La Virgen Milagrosa in Badoc.

The accident led to the release of suspected petroleum-based substances into the water. Responders observed an oil sheen and detected a strong petroleum smell near the vessel. Oil residues were later found along sections of the shoreline in Barangay Dadalaquiten Norte in Sinait, Ilocos Sur.

Undersecretary for Fisheries Drusila Bayate said BFAR has stepped up monitoring and assessment activities to evaluate the extent of contamination and possible effects on fisheries resources.

“While there have been no reports of fish kills, abnormal fish behavior, or contaminated fishery products so far, we are taking a precautionary approach. Continuous monitoring, seafood safety testing, and fisheries impact assessments are underway to ensure that any emerging risks are detected and addressed immediately,” Bayate said.

Bayate also directed BFAR Regional Director Remely B. Lachica to coordinate with the regional offices of the Department of Labor and Employment and the Department of Social Welfare and Development to facilitate assistance for affected fisherfolk through the TUPAD cash-for-work program and food pack distribution.

Initial assessments showed that at least 135 registered fisherfolk and 30 fishing vessels operating in Badoc could be affected by the incident. The DA said it stands ready to provide food assistance, temporary livelihood support, and other interventions if fishing activities are disrupted.

Authorities continue to assess the situation while containment, monitoring, and cleanup efforts remain underway.