A tanker, MT Terra Nova, carrying industrial fuel sank off the coast of Limay in Bataan, Philippines, on Thursday, July 25.
As per Reuters, one crew member died, and an oil spill now threatens the waters near Manila.
Sixteen of the 17 crew members were rescued, but the body of the missing crew member was later found in the sea.
Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista reported the ship was carrying 1,494 metric tonnes of fuel when it capsized in rough seas.
However, efforts to contain the oil spill are hampered by strong winds and high waves. An aerial survey revealed an oil slick extending about two nautical miles.
As per the outlet, a 97-meter coast guard vessel is already on-site, with smaller vessels on standby until weather conditions improve.
Meanwhile, coast guard spokesperson Armando Balilo expressed concern that the oil spill might reach Manila due to the proximity.
The Philippine President has instructed the environment ministry to assess the damage, with officials investigating if Typhoon Gaemi's effects contributed to the incident.
Additionally, this spill follows a similar incident last year when another tanker, MT Princess Empress, sank, causing an extensive oil spill that took three months to clean up.
