Philippine oil tanker sinks in Manila Bay, raising fears of a possible major spill near the capital

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🗞️ Driving the news: A Philippine oil tanker, Terra Nova, sank in Manila Bay after encountering severe waves, resulting in one fatality and 16 rescues
• The coast guard is assessing the potential for a major oil spill, as the tanker was carrying approximately 1.4 million liters of industrial fuel oil

🔭 The context: The incident occurred amid ongoing monsoon rains and a nearby typhoon, which have caused widespread flooding and landslides across the Philippines
• The coast guard is preparing containment measures to prevent oil from reaching Manila's shores

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: The potential oil spill poses significant environmental threats, including damage to marine ecosystems and the tourism-dependent shoreline of Manila
• Previous spills in the region have caused extensive ecological and economic harm

⏭️ What's next: Authorities are considering siphoning the oil cargo to mitigate the environmental impact
• Efforts will be needed to ensure a swift and effective response to contain any spill and minimize damage

💬 One quote: "There’s a big danger that Manila would be affected, its shorelines, if the fuel leaks... We are racing against time," said Coast Guard spokesperson Rear Adm. Armando Balilo

📈 One stat: The tanker carried about 1.4 million liters (370,000 gallons) of industrial fuel oil

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