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 monitoring the situation closely and has sent personnel from the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) to assist in response efforts being 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.

According to the DA, preliminary information indicates that the vessel was not carrying crude oil or large quantities of bunker fuel, a factor that may reduce environmental damage and ease cleanup operations.

The incident occurred 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. Seawater reportedly entered the vessel’s ballast tanks, causing it to tilt and partially capsize near the waters of Barangay La Virgen Milagrosa in Badoc.

Authorities reported the release of suspected petroleum-based products from the vessel. Responders observed an oil sheen and detected a strong petroleum odor near the site. Oil residues were later found along sections of the shoreline in Barangay Dadalaquiten Norte in Sinait, Ilocos Sur.

BFAR has stepped up monitoring and assessment activities to determine the extent of contamination and its possible effects on fisheries, according to Undersecretary for Fisheries Drusila Bayate.

“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 Department of Labor and Employment regional office to include affected fisherfolk in the TUPAD cash-for-work program and with the Department of Social Welfare and Development for the distribution of food packs.

Initial assessments showed that at least 135 registered fisherfolk and 30 fishing vessels operating in Badoc may be affected by the incident.

The DA said it is ready to provide food packs, temporary livelihood support, and other forms of assistance if fishing operations are disrupted.

Containment, monitoring, and cleanup efforts remain ongoing as authorities continue to assess environmental conditions in the affected areas.