Argao official: Oil drilling not detrimental

A tourism official in the municipality of Argao believes that the exploratory drilling to be conducted by NorAsian for possible deposits of natural gas and oil in the area would do more good than harm to the town.

Argao tourism officer Alex Gonzales said the information campaign they are conducting got 80 to 90 percent positive response from the residents.

However, barangay Langtad, whose residents are mostly fishermen, strongly opposes the oil exploration for fear that it might affect the people’s means of livelihood.

Gonzales also said that the town would ensure the prevention of environmental destruction while the drilling is ongoing.

“We believe it can be done without destroying the environment if the technology would be used accurately and safely,” Gonzales said.

Argao has tapped the University of San Carlos to conduct consistent water sampling to monitor water contamination and the Silliman University to study the behavior of marine creatures from time to time once the drilling begins.

A database of the affected areas and residents is also being prepared.

Gonzales said that they have asked NorAsian to assist them in creating a preparedness team in case disaster occurs.

NorAsian promised $500 million insurance in case of an accident that might cause damage to the town and its people.

Further, incentives will be given to fishermen who will be affected by the oil drilling.

NorAsian has already chosen the site where a drilling rig will be installed to start the exploration next month.

The site would be seven kilometers off the shoreline across the Poblacion.

The energy company is set to dig three kilometers deep from the seabed.

The drilling site will have a kilometer parameter where fishermen are prohibited to enter.

The fishermen’s “payaws” originally located within the parameter will be compensated P7,000 per unit.

The 10 fishermen’s organizations existing in the town will also be given P25,000 each.

Gonzales said the Argao government would make sure the 10 fish sanctuaries existing in Argao would have their deserved protection. — Jessica Ann Pareja/MEEV