Anger at Philippines oil spill

The clean-up operation in the Philippines is on-going after the oil spill from a sinking tanker on August 11th.

It is reported that over 25,000 people have had their livelihoods put at risk because of the spill.

President Gloria Arroyo visited the site and declared it a national calamity, confirming that a full investigation will take place into the sinking of the tanker and the spilled oil.

However, Greenpeace has expressed anger at the tanker company, Petron, and the country's government for failing to act swiftly.

The organisation's ship Esperanza has been sent to the region to focus on the environmental impact and what can be done to help the local population.

Beau Baconguis, from Greenpeace, stated: "The Philippine government must quickly declare a state of calamity in the affected communities.

"The government must also force Petron to prevent the rest of its oil from further leaking into the sea and hold the company accountable for damages to the environment and for economic losses in these areas."

Prisoners in Manila's jails have had their heads shaved so that human hair can be used by the government in the clean up. Locals that have been participating in the clean up have fallen ill due to the fumes from the tar like substance stuck to most vegetation.

Greenpeace believe this to be the Philippines' worst oil spill and the government is asking for outside help in dealing with the problem.