The local government of San Fernando, Camarines Sur, is collecting coconut husks to aid in the cleanup of the oil spill in Bataan, as these fibers have proven effective in absorbing oil from water.

Known as the "Tree of Life," the coconut tree is valued for its numerous beneficial parts, from top to bottom. 

According to the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Bicol, coconut husks possess absorbent properties that make them an effective and environmentally friendly alternative for oil spill cleanup.

"Ang coconut husk or coco coir, effective and environment friendly alternative siya in oil spill cleanup dahil sa absorbent properties niya. Yung fiber niya can absorb oil while repelling water, making it ideal para mahiwalay ang oil from water surfaces," Rowena Bricia-Briones, BFAR Bicol spokesperson, said.

In support of this initiative, the San Fernando local government has already collected 15 dump trucks of coconut husks, with some of these already transported to Bataan.

The husks are sourced from various barangays in San Fernando, including Pinamasagan, Tagpocol, Cotmo, and others.

Mayor Fermin Mabulo of San Fernando, Camarines Sur, encouraged residents to contribute to the cause. He said they trade it in change for rice.

"Kung may mga bunot pa po na available sa mga niyugan nindo na harani man lang sa tinampo, hahagadon mi na po yan, tapos riribayan ming bagas tanganing may karibay man, tanganing may pakinabang man sainda. And then dagus-dagos lang po an pagtipon tang bunot ta kadakol talagang kaipuhan para sa oil spill," Mabulo said.