The Philippines has accused Chinese fishermen of damaging the marine environment at Scarborough Shoal, a disputed feature controlled by China’s coast guard in the South China Sea. The Philippines is calling on Beijing to allow international experts to investigate the situation.
During a recent press conference, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) presented satellite images showing extensive damage to the coral reefs surrounding Scarborough Shoal, allegedly caused by Chinese fishermen hunting for giant clams.
Philippine National Security spokesman Jonathan Malaya expressed concern over the situation and urged China to open Bajo de Masinloc, as the shoal is called by Manila, to international observers for an independent inquiry.
The Philippines specifically blames Chinese fishermen for depleting giant clams at Scarborough Shoal, which is well within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone. Despite the dispute, China claims sovereignty over the area.
China’s control of Scarborough Shoal led to extensive harvesting of giant clams, causing damage to the marine environment, according to reports. The Philippine officials are considering legal action against China for the destruction of coral reefs in the region.
Recent tensions between China and the Philippines at Scarborough Shoal have escalated, with incidents involving Chinese Coast Guard vessels preventing Filipino fisherfolk from accessing the area. The Philippines removed a floating barrier installed by China last September, leading to skirmishes between the two sides.