The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has lauded the government’s "swift humanitarian response" in addressing the Feb. 28 oil spill that has been affecting communities in Oriental Mindoro and may even reach Boracay Island. MT Princess Empress capsized and caused 800,000 liters of industrial oil to spill that spread fast and threatened over 36,000 hectares of coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass. Estimates stated that more than 10,000 families have so far been affected. Several government agencies immediately took action after the spill. The Department of Environment and Natural Resource (DENR) monitored and developed a potential impact map to assess the overall damage caused by the oil spill, while the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) led the distribution of cash aid and cash-for-work programs for fishermen, vendors and families in Oriental Mindoro. The Department of Health (DOH) provided urgent medical assistance to residents and hazmat suits for frontline responders. In a statement, the CHR said that an oil spill of that magnitude should be addressed through a "whole-of-government approach with a human rights lens" since the most vulnerable sectors face the most compounding risks. It stressed that they should be prioritized in aid and recovery to ensure that no one is left behind. "The right to a healthy environment is crucial in the enjoyment of all other human rights. Environmental degradation, climate change, and pollution have all been proven to have significant negative impacts on human health, well-being, livelihood, mobility, as well as cultural identity," the CHR said. "The Commission also underscores that impacted communities must be encouraged to exercise their right to participation, information, and consultation relative to the spill and its aftermath," it said. "This not only enables citizens to take on a more active role in shaping recovery efforts relative to their economic, social and cultural rights, it also allows for the exchange of knowledge and building of trust between them and the government,” it added. It urged authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the oil spill and hold accountable parties responsible for any negligence or misconduct that led to this hazardous incident. It pointed out the importance of businesses to do their part in addressing climate change to avoid similar incidents from taking place in the future. It recommended the use of fossil fuels and the strengthened promotion of alternative sources of energy. At the same time, the CHR said the government should support businesses that plan to move forward with environmental sustainability by making the economy "equitable and inclusive" and guaranteeing decent work for all.