Three weeks ago, the tanker “Terra Nova” sank off the Philippines and an oil slick spread across the region.
The Coast Guard announced that salvage work had now begun. The ship was carrying 1.4 million litres of oil. The “Terra Nova” was on its way to Iloilo when it capsized and sank due to Typhoon Gaemi. One member of the 17-strong crew died in the accident. Authorities feared an oil spill of historic proportions.
“Terra Nova” caused major environmental damage
An oil slick several kilometres long spread off the coast, covering an area of over 80 km2, according to the marine conservation organisation Oceana. It caused major environmental damage and affected fishing off the capital Manila. Fishing bans were imposed in some regions. Oceana reported damage amounting to around €16m.
In addition to the “Terra Nova”, two other smaller ships sank in the region within a short space of time, further exacerbating the situation. Following the necessary preparations, the Philippine Coast Guard has now begun to remove the oil slick and secure the remaining oil on board the tanker. A private company has been commissioned to pump out the eight tanks on board the ship.
The “Terra Nova”, which flew the flag of the Philippines, is lying on the bottom at a depth of around 30 metres. The first transports have already been successful. The entire operation is expected to take a week, as each of the tanks holds 175,000 litres of oil.
