The Economic Impact and Response to Oil Spill Disaster

The Case Study of Guimaras Island, Philippines

Abstract

This study elucidated the economic impact of oil spill disaster in Guimaras Island, Philippines in terms of opportunity losses on foregone income and recreational benefits of affected residents. In addition, the study described the initiatives of government agencies, non-government organizations and other stakeholders to recompense the affected residents. Moreover, this paper clarified the fishermen’s’ activities to make up for the loss of coastal fisheries.

The indicative opportunity losses of residents due to the oil spill in Guimaras Island would range from 970 million peso to 1 billion peso. Initially, clean-up operations of the oil debris on the beach were done and relief goods were distributed to ease out food and water shortage. Subsequently, several alternative livelihood programs/projects were implemented, most of which were agriculture and fisheries based. Since 2007, the marine culture of milkfish has started by the community-based group. The activity of this group has become an independent business not relies on assistant fund. Looking into the bearing of natural resources and environment into people’s livelihoods, it is vital that economic activities should be anchored on the sustainability of such resources.