The Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) Masinloc conducted an spill management and orientation drill in the town of Masinloc, Zambales, intensifying the office’s readiness and preparedness during disaster including oil spill incidents.

CENRO Masinloc chief Donaver Guevarra said that the office’s the newly acquired 400-meter spill boom and spill boom kits that are critical response tools that strengthen on-ground preparedness. He added that these tools will safeguard the rich marine biodiversity and livelihoods dependent on the more than 7,000-ha Masinloc and Oyon Bay Protected Landscape and Seascape (MOBPLS).

“These oil spill boom and spill boom kits act as physical barriers to contain and control the spread of oil and other hazardous substances on water surfaces,” he said, adding that, “The procurement of oil spill boom is a proactive measure to ensure prompt and effective response to oil spills and marine pollution incidents.”

The new equipment will minimize potential damage to marine and coastal ecosystems, with Guevarra noting that personnel of the Protected Area Management Office (PAMO) in Masinloc were trained on the proper use of the equipment during emergencies.

Executive Director Ralph Pablo of the DENR regional office lauded this proactive action and initiative to further reinforce marine ecosystem protection in the area.

“Last year, the MOBPLS bagged the Gawad Pagkilala Award for marine conservation excellence and was also recognized as an outstanding locally managed marine protected area during the prestigious 2025 Para El Mar Awards,” Pablo said.

“These recognitions are a testament to the effective management of the only legislated marine protected area in Central Luzon through the collective efforts of the DENR, local government units, other national government agencies, and the community,” he added.

To further enhance operational readiness, CENRO Masinloc, through its Protected Area Management Office (PAMO), is set to conduct intensive hands-on training on the proper installation and deployment of spill booms this February.

It will be participated in by personnel from DENR, Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), the local government units of Masinloc and Palauig, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), Philippine National Police Maritime Group, and Philippine Ports Authority (PPA).