Low-level contaminants found in fish samples from oil spill-affected areas —BFAR

The Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) found low-level contaminants or polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) in the fish samples from the affected areas by the oil spill in Oriental Mindoro.

"The results of the analyses are not yet conclusive as far as food safety is concerned. Further sampling and analyses are being conducted to establish time-series results on the effect of the oil spill on fish concerning food safety, taking into account the magnitude of the oil spill which has reached neighboring areas like Caluya, Antique, and some municipalities of Palawan," the agency said.

According to a statement from the DA-BFAR, the agency collected fish samples from the municipalities of Naujan, Pola, Pinamalayan, Bansud, Gloria, Roxas, Mansalay, Bongabong, and Bulalacao in Oriental Mindoro to determine if seafood is safe for public consumption and if fishing bans should be imposed or lifted by the local government units (LGUs) concerned.

The BFAR said it will continuously analyze water and fish samples in affected areas to monitor the possible spread of contamination and determine the extent of damage caused by the oil spill in the fishery sector.

However, the agency recommends the continuous suspension of fishing activities in the aforementioned areas in Oriental Mindoro for public safety.

The DA-BFAR has allocated an initial budget of P6.4 million for livelihood and relief assistance to aid fisherfolk and their families cope with the loss of income due to fishing bans.

"The amount includes the P1.5 million worth of food packs provided by the DA-BFAR through its regional office in MIMAROPA, which benefited 5,000 oil spill-hit families in Oriental Mindoro. Additional funding is also being prepositioned based on rehabilitation proposals from the affected areas," BFAR noted. —VAL, GMA Integrated News