The oil spill from capsized tanker MT Terra Nova which was carrying 1.4 million liters of oil is now affecting the municipal waters of several areas. Greenpeace is calling on President Marcos Jr. to make oil and gas companies pay for polluting our waters and fueling the climate crisis. Noel Celis, Greenpeace handout

MANILA — The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) said fish samples from Bataan, where a massive oil spill was happening, still passed "sensory analysis" as of Monday. 

• Filipino fishermen worried as oil spill threatens livelihoods 

"Fish samples from Bataan (Limay, Orion, Balanga City, and Samal) tested today, July 29, for taste (cooked fish), raw odor, and cooked odor all passed the sensory analysis," BFAR said in its first "Bataan Oil Spill Bulletin." 

But BFAR added that more thorough laboratory tests will be needed to know if the fish in the area have already been contaminated.  

"Succeeding tests with third-party laboratories for presence of oil and grease, and harmful contaminants called polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) will also be carried out," BFAR said. 

BFAR said it has not issued a fishing ban yet over adjacent waters still unaffected by the oil spill. It also urged fisherfolk and the public to remain "calm" amid the incident. 

• Temporary fishing ban raised in 2 Bataan towns due to oil spill 

"Fisherfolk are urged to promptly report any oil slick sighting, avoid contaminated areas, use personal protective equipment when necessary, immediately harvest shellfish or fish in the surrounding area, and prevent further contamination by maintaining proper waste disposal and regular boat maintenance."

According to London-based group ITOPF, "oil spills can cause serious damage to fishery and mariculture resources through physical contamination, toxic effects on stock and by disrupting business activities." 

The MT Terra Nova sank off the coast of Bataan on July 25 after Typhoon Carina triggered strong winds and rough seas across the Philippines. The vessel was carrying 1.4 million liters of industrial fuel oil.

• Oil spill from MT Terra Nova projected to reach Bulacan, Cavite: UP MSI

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