PCG: No oil spill detected from grounded tugboat in Zambales

Authorities found no signs of an oil spill from the tugboat intentionally run aground off Botolan, Zambales, Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) spokesperson Commodore Noemie Cayabyab said Monday.

The vessel, identified as SL SUAI 1, was deliberately run aground on August 14 after a breach in its hull flooded the engine room. All nine crew members were safely rescued by emergency responders.

“During our inspection, we did not observe any oil spill. Based on further assessment, all fuel tanks remain sealed, so the public has nothing to worry about,” Cayabyab said on "Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon."

Cayabyab said the vessel is currently leaning 30 degrees to its starboard, or right, side.

The PCG is waiting for weather conditions to improve in the coming days before proceeding with emergency salvage operations, which will include refloating the vessel and pumping out the seawater that entered it.

"Once the weather clears in the next few days, the Philippine Coast Guard will conduct emergency salvage operations," Cayabyab said.

“We will refloat the vessel and, at the same time, pump out the seawater that entered it,” she added.

Cayabyab noted that the shipowner typically shoulders the expenses for salvage operations.

The PCG advised the public, particularly coastal communities, to remain updated on weather conditions. — MCG, GMA News