“Panama has extensive experience in controlling oil spills at sea, given the intense maritime activity in its waters, where thousands of vessels transit each year, and the risks inherent in the oil industry,” said Captain Carlos Sagrera, environmental advisor to the Panama Maritime Authority (AMP).
"Nobody wants these types of incidents, but they can occur due to human error or technical deficiencies. That's why it's essential to be prepared to respond quickly and effectively," Sagrera emphasized.
Captain Sagrera's remarks were given during the "IMO Oil Spill Preparedness and Response (OPRC) Level 2 Training Model" course. The course is aimed at inspectors, supervisors, and on-scene commanders of the Panamanian Shipowners Association (ARPA) and the AMP 's Pollution Control and Elimination Department .
Sagrera explained that the training provides continuity to the activation of the National Contingency Plan and includes the participation of the specialized private sector, with the goal of consolidating a joint operational structure.
"When a spill or other type of incident occurs in ports or jurisdictional waters, we must act in a coordinated manner and with adequate resources," the specialist emphasized.
For his part, ARPA Executive Director José Digeronimo highlighted the private sector's commitment to preparedness and inter-institutional cooperation. "We have made great efforts in the private sector. We started with the Taboga Port, where we operate a rapid response system.
These training sessions strengthen communication and coordination between shipowners, ports, and oil terminals with the AMP , which is key to addressing any eventuality with knowledge, efficiency, and unity," said Digeronimo.
During four days of training, topics such as salvage, sinking management (one of the most critical scenarios in the event of a spill), preventative measures, containment and recovery, as well as the use of dispersants, which must be applied in the open sea, in accordance with ecological criteria and international standards, were covered.
The course also included an induction on how to effectively prepare for a press conference, raising awareness about potential situations related to these incidents, and promoting action to protect the environment and public health.
