From a neighborhood rooftop in Pandacan, Manila, Philippines, an oil depot collectively owned and operated by Petron, Shell and Chevron is clearly visible. The oil storage tanks seem within arms’ reach of the children playing in the adjacent park. Dead branches of recently planted palm trees wither in the park and sewage drains expose an abundance of oil sitting just below the ground. Between the oil depot and the neigboring community, a tantalizing park serves to literally cover-up the buffer zone--a space meant to maintain distance between the hazard of the oil depot and the community. Children who play in the park, residents who live near or work in the depot, and students who attend the nearby University are exposed to toxic chemicals emitted into the air daily.

United Front to Oust Oil Depots (UFO-OD), in collaboration with Global Community Monitor, have conducted tests that show alarming levels of benzene in the air of the fence-line community. University of the Philppines College of Medicine also reported abnormal levels of lead in urine samples and diagnosed the majority of patients tested with median neuropathy.

Additionally, the close proximity of the depot makes the community vulnerable to the threat of an environmental catastrophe. Just recently, an estimated 40,000 liters of diesel fuel overflowed from a Chevron operated pipeline leading from Batangas to Pandacan.
Direction and goals
In alliance with UFO-OD, FACES is working for clean up and accountability. FACES has recently established a Chevron Campaign Committee. The campaign aims to pressure Chevron, the 2nd largest oil company in the US, to demand accountability and reparations. The campaign has been researching the company and the health factors, networking with other organizations and communities impacted by Chevron operations, and raising awareness about the issue.
Take Action
If you’re interested in joining the CAREnow! Campaign Committee, please e-mail info@facessolidarity.org

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