Oil spill fears have unfolded after a Chinese vessel had capsized on Tuesday off the coast of Barangay Malawaan in Rizal, Occidental Mindoro, raising worries of another environmental disaster in an island still recovering from a previous oil spill catastrophe.

The Department of Health and Provincial Health Office of Occidental Mindoro said that oil spills represent not only environmental threats but also serious risks to public health and livelihoods.

The incident occurred at approximately 5pm on April 15, 2025, according to initial reports from the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) SAMARICA Sub-Office.

Authorities report the vessel was carrying approximately 2,000 liters of lubricating oil and 30,000 liters of Automotive Diesel Oil (ADO) when it sank.

The cause of the capsizing has not yet been determined.

Search and rescue operations are currently underway, with local authorities closely monitoring the coastal waters for signs of oil spillage.

The Provincial Health Office of Occidental Mindoro has issued a public advisory urging residents to avoid affected coastal areas until officials declare them safe.

The advisory states that people should refrain from fishing, swimming, or harvesting marine resources in potentially affected areas.

Residents are also advised to monitor official announcements for warnings and safety guidelines.

Health risks from noxious fumes and contaminated water present immediate fears for nearby municipalities.

Environmental damage to fish, marine life, and coral reefs could be extensive if oil reaches sensitive ecosystems.

There is also valid concern about potential livelihood disruption for coastal areas in Rizal town that depend on fishing.

This incident comes as Mindoro is still dealing with the aftermath of the MT Princess Empress oil spill in February 2023, when a tanker carrying 800,000 liters of industrial fuel oil sank off Oriental Mindoro.

That disaster affected over 100,000 people across 120 coastal communities, devastated marine ecosystems, and crippled the fishing and tourism industries.

Clean-up operations continued for months, with environmental impacts still being monitored.

Environmental groups have expressed concern about the potential for another ecological catastrophe if containment efforts are not swift and effective.

Officials are expected to provide updates as the situation develops.

Photos: courtesy of the Philippine Coast Guard