The Philippine Coast Guard said Monday it was investigating a suspected oil spill off Manila Bay after yellowish liquid was observed near the Manila Yacht Club area.
The waste appeared to be coming from the cooling system of the MV Saranggani. However, the vessel's oiler and the onle one on board the said ship, Escalante Bunyi, said the discharge did not contain oil.
The waste has spread to a 500-meter area, according to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.
"Kulay dilaw siya. Hindi siya ma-dissipate o ma-dilute ng sea water so nagkakalat-kalat lang siya," DENR Manila Bay Coordinating Director Jake Meimban told state broadcaster PTV.
Meimban said he feared the waste could hurt marine life and the ongoing Manila Bay rehabilitation.
Samples were collected to determine the cause of the water discoloration.
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