Spill preparedness training in Manila, Philippines has helped to reinforce the country’s ability to tackle marine spills involving hazardous and noxious substances (HNS).
A national workshop (29-31 July) led by IMO tested the country’s preparedness and response systems, identifying areas for improvement in the National Spill Contingency Plan (NSCP).
Approximately 50 representatives from government agencies, academia, and the private sector joined the training, which covered the international regulatory framework for preparedness and compensation, as well as strategies for undertaking effective, efficient, and safe clean-up operations.
The aim was for participants to develop a clear understanding of the complexities of HNS marine spills and how these are to be addressed in the national spill contingency plan.
The workshop follows a previous one held in May 2024, organized by the Philippines Coast Guard and ITOPF, where an action plan was developed to implement the lessons learnt from the oil spill involving the tanker PRINCESS EMPRESS, which occurred in February 2023.
The initiative is part of the Global Initiative for Southeast Asia (GISEA) Project, jointly led by IMO and Ipieca, which works to advance the oil and gas industry’s environmental and social performance and contribution to the energy transition.
It was delivered through IMO’s Integrated Technical Cooperation Programme (ITCP) and co-funded by IMO and the Philippines, through the Maritime Industry Authority MARINA.