The loaded volume was 2,193,000 liters while the cargo tank
capacity of the vessel was 2,228,000 liters or 98%. In terms of weight, the
cargo was 2,064 metric tons versus the dead weight tonnage of 2,128 metric tons
or 97%. Clearly, in terms of weight and volume, there was no overloading.
The gross tonnage of 998 metric tons of the vessel has nothing
to do with its load since this pertains to the space occupied by the hull and
machinery.
What is Petron's liability?
Petron will extend all the assistance needed to the province of Guimaras and
other affected areas. Petron is committed to stay and help in the province as
long as necessary.
Why is Petron's response so "slow"?
From the time that Petron learned of the incident on August 12,
it has put the oil spill gear and equipment and oil spill response teams on
alert. The next morning, an aerial survey was immediately undertaken to assess
the extent of the damage so that the proper equipment to combat the oil spill
can be deployed.
Petron deployed equipment which includes W.I.S.E. (Waterborne
Industry Spill Response) tugboats, oil spill booms, sorbent pads, oil skimmers,
dispersants etc. It has 4 oil spill response teams assisting in clean-up
operations. Petron has also sought the assistance of experts as well as other
members of the oil industry in order to expedite the oil spill containment and
recovery.
On the ground, Petron organized clean-up operations on the
affected shorelines. More than 800 people in under a "cash-for-work" scheme
were engaged to help in the shoreline clean-up. Hopefully, more of the local
communities will be tapped to expedite the clean-up. As of August 23, Petron
has covered nearly 25 kilometers of shoreline. At the current rate, the
clean-up is expected to be completed in 30-45 days. Petron has also equipped
the local populace helping in the clean-up with the proper tools (gloves, face
masks, boots etc.)
The company is consulting and coordinating with U.P. Visayas,
Silliman University and the World Wildlife Fund in the rehabilitation of the
damaged areas.
