MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Environment (DENR) on Wednesday afternoon denied radio reports that there was an oil spill from the capsized MV Princess of the Stars in Romblon waters.
In a phone interview with GMANews.TV, Environment Undersecretary Manuel Gerochi clarified that there was only a leak of bunker fuel and diesel from the ill-fated ship, and not a spill.
The white substance seen floating there is not from an oil spill... There is no oil spill there but just an oil leak, he said.
In a hastily called press conference, Gerochi said the oil leak resulted to the floating of "oil sheens" that are not dangerous.
"The cloud-like film seen floating on top of the water in the area is a mixed bunker and diesel fuel, which is only light. Which means that by natural action it evaporates in itself. It is not a reason to cause panic," he said.
Gerochi said the leak is already under control since personnel from the Philippine Coast Guard had already placed containment booms in the area.
The Sulpicio Lines-owned MV Princess of the Stars capsized off Sibugay Island in Romblon province Saturday, resulting to the deaths of at least 70 people and leaving more than 700 missing. - Johanna Camille Sisante, GMANews.TV