Petron ships out 500MT of oil-covered debris from Guimaras

By Donnabelle L. Gatdula
Publication Date: [Thursday, September 21, 2006]

http://www.philstar.com/philstar/show_content.asp?article=276293

Petron Corp. reported yesterday that it has shipped out some 500 metric tons (MT) of oil-covered debris as part of its overall clean-up operations in Guimaras.

In a press statement, Petron said a landing craft tanker (LCT) with a capacity of 2,000 metric tons left the Cabalagnan Wharf in Nueva Valencia last Wednesday.

The LCT will bring the debris to Holcim Philippines‚ Lugait plant in Misamis Oriental where it will be used as an alternative fuel and raw material in cement production without compromising the quality of cement.

The oil firm noted that the high technology plant will convert the oil-covered debris into energy without producing any hazardous compounds or fumes.

Petron said Holcim has had experience in handling, storing and co-processing of similar materials locally and globally. The global cement manufacturing company is committed to the safe and proper co-processing of waste without compromising the quality of its product and the environment. Holcim’s operations are supported by its compliance with all requirements, permits and environmental regulations by government.

Since the end of August, Petron has deployed 15 dump trucks to haul the debris collected from the affected barangays in Guimaras. The company aims to complete disposal operations as soon as possible.

"As we have earlier stressed, we are committed to the people of Guimaras and we will continue our clean-up operations. We have been working closely with the provincial government, the DOH and DENR to expedite the transfer and disposal of the waste from the island," Petron’s health, safety and environment manager Caloy V.

Tan said. Tan said the company has secured the necessary environmental permits to transport the debris. The vessel has also been cleared by the Marina, the Philippine Coast Guard, the Philippine Ports Authority and the EMB-DENR.

Earlier, Petron released "A Guide for Recovery and Disposition of Oil Debris" which was approved by the Environment and Natural Resources Office of the Guimaras provincial government (PG-ENRO).