Legarda Files Resolution to Conduct Inquiry into Alleged Waste Dumping Incident in Subic by a US Navy Contractor

SENATOR LOREN LEGARDA TODAY FILED SENATE RESOLUTION 894 THAT WILL DIRECT THE SENATE COMMITTEE ON FOREIGN RELATIONS AND COMMITTEE ON ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES TO CONDUCT A JOINT INQUIRY INTO THE ALLEGED WASTE DUMPING INCIDENT IN SUBIC BY A US NAVY CONTRACTOR.
“The tanker MT Glenn Guardian, said to be owned by a private contractor of the US Navy, allegedly discharged untreated and toxic wastewater into the sea, about 37 kilometers away from Subic Bay without a discharge permit from the Philippine government. Laboratory testing of the wastewater samples reportedly showed that the level of toxicity of the liquid wastes exceeded ‘the levels set by international marine pollution conventions’,” Legarda explained.
“They must be held liable and responsible and must do clean-up as soon as possible,” she stressed.
Legarda, Co-Chair of the Legislative Oversight Committee on the Visiting Forces Agreement (LOVFA), also noted that the foreign firm allegedly claimed coverage under the VFA with the US to avoid investigation and possible criminal liability.
The Senator stressed that there is a need to establish how the VFA Commission ensures, in coordination with Philippine agencies, the enforcement of the VFA provisions guaranteeing respect for Philippine laws in connection with the implementation of the agreement and its related activities.
“The VFA Commission is mandated to coordinate with the Legislative Oversight Committee in ensuring that the implementation of the VFA continues to serve national interest,” she added.
“This investigation, in aid of legislation, will be a necessary step for us in order to reevaluate the implementation of our environmental laws and to ensure that implementation of Philippine treaties and agreements with other countries will continue to serve the paramount objective of protecting the national interest,” Legarda concluded.
Here’s the link to Senate Resolution 894.