Universal Robina Corp. (URC) has assured continued assistance to communities impacted by the release of molasses-based wastewater from its Bais Distillery following the collapse of a containment lagoon on October 26.
On Wednesday, the URC said it is prioritizing help for affected families and the repair of the damaged dike, which the company said was weakened by an earthquake and heavy rains. URC noted that seawater monitoring conducted with the Coast Guard, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)–Tañon Strait Protected Seascape, and Silliman University showed improvements in water quality and the return of marine life in previously discolored areas.
The firm emphasized that the recent typhoon did not compromise the main dike or worsen contamination but delayed repair works, now expected to be completed by November 14. The reinforced structure is designed to withstand future extreme weather and seismic activity.
URC said it continues to coordinate with the DENR and experts on rehabilitation measures for affected marine areas, adding that its “assistance and support for affected families and communities remain steadfast until the situation returns to normal.”
Earlier, the DENR reported that about 255,000 cubic meters of molasses wastewater had spilled into Bais Bay, affecting more than 380 hectares of marine areas across 13 barangays within the Tañon Strait Protected Seascape. The agency said it is reviewing URC’s environmental permits and may pursue administrative, civil, or criminal cases as warranted, while conducting an assessment of the environmental and economic impact of the spill.
