Governor Bonz Dolor has ordered the immediate arrest of those behind attempts to spill oil on two beaches in Puerto Galera.

“I am directing the Philippine National Police, the chief of police of Puerto Galera: Find the responsible individuals within 24 hours from my announcement,” said Dolor in a recent press briefing.

Dolor offered a reward of P200,000 for anyone who can provide information leading to the arrest of the culprits in each case, stressing that it is reprehensible for individuals to exploit the situation and carry out such actions during these challenging times.

“Kung kinakailangan kong magdadagdag mahuli lamang kung sinuman ito, gagawin ko po,” the governor said. “Bakit? Dahil hindi biro ang mga ganitong gawain sa panahon ng kalamidad.”

Puerto Galera, a popular tourist destination in Oriental Mindoro known for its beaches, diving sites, and stunning natural landscapes, is currently in turmoil.

MORE: DOT chief firm on keeping Puerto Galera open despite safety concerns

This, after 26 of its 35 water sampling stations failed to meet the quality standards, prompting the Department of Health to advise the public against any water-related activities in the affected areas.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources said it could not conclusively attribute the contamination to the recent oil spill caused by the MT Princess Empress off the coasts of Oriental Mindoro, as the town’s water quality was already poor prior to the incident.

MORE: Water quality in Puerto Galera already poor even before the oil spill–DENR