Ethanol Spill in Tañon Strait Halts Tourism and Fishing Activities

October 30, 2025 - 10:09

The city government of Bais, Negros Oriental, has taken decisive action by suspending all regular tourism trips to the Sand Bar and dolphin-watching activities following a significant ethanol spill. This environmental disaster, attributed to the Universal Robina Corporation, has severely contaminated the city’s North Bay, impacting its shores and coastlines along the Tañon Strait, situated between the islands of Negros and Cebu.

Local authorities are deeply concerned about the repercussions of the spill on both the fishing industry and tourism, two vital sectors for the community's economy. Fishermen have reported a drastic decline in fish populations, jeopardizing their livelihoods. Meanwhile, the tourism sector, which flourishes on the natural beauty and marine life of the area, faces an uncertain future as visitors are discouraged from engaging in activities that could expose them to the contaminated waters.

Efforts are underway to assess the full extent of the damage and to implement cleanup operations, but the long-term effects on the ecosystem and local economy remain a pressing concern for residents and officials alike.