OCD monitors wastewater spill in Negros Oriental as coastal areas affected

The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) on Sunday said it is closely monitoring a wastewater spill incident in Barangay Tamiso, Bais City, Negros Oriental, following the collapse of a containment lagoon at the Universal Robina Corporation (URC) Bais Distillery on 26 October.

In a statement, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Operations Center (NDRRMOC) reported that the spill has led to visible discoloration in North Bais Bay, raising concerns over potential threats to marine biodiversity, local fisheries, and the livelihoods of coastal residents.

According to initial assessments from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), approximately 382.3 hectares of coastal and marine areas may have been affected, spanning eight barangays in Bais City and five barangays in Manjuyod Municipality.

OCD Administrator and NDRRMC Executive Director Usec. Harold Cabreros has directed OCD field units, including the Negros Island Region (NIR) office, to continue ground monitoring and coordinate closely with local disaster risk reduction offices and other government agencies.

Ocular inspections are ongoing to assess the extent of the contamination and to guide response and mitigation measures.

The OCD reminded the public to avoid affected coastal waters and to report any unusual fish kills or pollution-related health concerns to local officials.