Initial assessment of the bacterial population of Guimaras waters and soil after the Solar I oil spill

Abstract

A massive oil spill occurred near the shores of Guimaras Island, Philippines in 11 Aug 2006 caused by the Sunken MT Solar I vessel. The oil spill spread to neighboring towns of Guimaras damaging the marine coastal environment, consequently,causing health and economic problems, particularly, by affecting local fisheries, wildlife and tourism. Hence, this study was conducted to assess, quantify and isolate indigenous bacteria with potential petroleum hydrocarbon-degrading properties that could be used for bioremediation of oil spill contaminated areas in Guimaras and nearby provinces.