Sun.Star: DOE says Tañon Strait oil check to resume next year

The exploration to determine the volume of oil deposits in the Tañon Strait, a body of water between Cebu and Negros Oriental, is set to resume next year, the Department of Energy (DOE) said. In a press conference in line during the 5th Visayas Mining Summit, DOE- Visayas Field Office Director Antonio Labios expects another round of protest actions by fisher folks and environmentalist groups who are against even in the developing stage of the exploration. Two years ago, the first stage of oil exploration was conducted in the seas of Samboan and Santander in Cebu province. Bohol Strait would also be part of another phase of exploration facilitated by NorAsia, as these areas are potential targets for huge oil deposits. Labios said the first phase of the exploration had been completed in July this year and other stages will follow early next year. Further, he said the exploration would not have any adverse effect on the environment. An environmental expert, earlier pointed out that any activity along Tañon Strait needs an Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) and an Environmental Impact Assessment as mandated by Presidential Decree 1234. Also, Tañon Strait is listed as the top 10 in fish production ground throughout the country. In the past two years, former governor, now Congressman George Arnaiz and Bais City Mayor Hector "Tata" Villanueva raised alarm on possible damages on marine resources that have become tourist targets, particularly the habitat of dolphins and whales. - Sun Star