URC says it’s helping families affected by Bais wastewater dike collapse

Universal Robina Corporation (URC) on Wednesday said it is now working on helping those affected by the collapse of its dike in Bais City, Negros Oriental.

The dike of Lagoon 6 of the URC-owned Bais Distillery collapsed late last month, sending molasses wastewater into Bais Bay, resulting in the discoloration of the water and dead fish. 

The incident affected 10 nearby barangays. In a statement, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources said the collapse of the containment lagoon's dike released "approximately up to 90% of its spent wash content into nearby waters" that resulted in "visible discoloration in North Bais Bay and [posed] potential risks to marine diversity, fisheries, and local livelihoods."

The DENR's preliminary findings estimated about 382.3 hectares of coastal and marine area were affected by the spill.

In its own statement, URC said that the dike damage was "caused by earthquake and torrential rains," and that it is focused on helping families affected by the spill.

“The recent result of seawater quality monitoring, which was conducted in collaboration with the Coast Guard, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources–Tañon Strait Protected Seascape (DENR – TSPS) and Silliman University, shows improvement in dissolved oxygen, pH and water color in the affected areas,” URC said.

“Marine life has also been observed in the previously discolored areas,” the company added.

URC said that the recent typhoon did not affect the integrity of the main dike nor escalate the contamination of the seawater from the collapsed lagoon, though it did cause some delay in the completion of repair. 

“Due to additional work necessary for reinforcement, estimated completion of the dike is on November 14, to ensure complete sealing,” it said. 

“This additional structure will withstand a repeat of unusually strong and relentless rains, tide action, and earthquake,” it added.

The manufacturing company said it continues to collaborate closely with the DENR as well as other experts to study all options for the rehabilitation of the marine area. 

“Our assistance and support for affected families and communities remain steadfast until the situation returns to normal,” URC said. — Ted Cordero/BM, GMA Integrated News