Philippine News Agency
DFA backs OSG in exploring legal options on WPS coral reef destruction
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) is ready to support the Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) in exploring legal options concerning environmental damage in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), specifically at Rozul Reef and Escoda Shoal.
Solicitor General Menardo Guevarra stated the OSG will evaluate all legal avenues, including potentially filing a complaint for damages before an international tribunal like the Permanent Court of Arbitration.
DFA Spokesperson Ma. Teresita Daza affirmed the DFA's readiness to contribute and follow the OSG's lead.
Daza reiterated that the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), to which China is a party, obliges states to protect and preserve the marine environment.
She further clarified that the 2016 Arbitral Award on the South China Sea extends this obligation to all maritime areas, both within and beyond national jurisdiction.
Consequently, states entering the Philippines' exclusive economic and maritime zones are obligated to protect its marine environment.
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The Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) is currently exploring legal strategies against China due to the destruction of coral reefs in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
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The Department of Justice (DOJ) is considering filing a new complaint against China before the Permanent Court of Arbitration for alleged environmental law violations in the West Philippine Sea.
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The Western Command (Wescom) has expressed alarm over the heightened presence of Chinese maritime militia vessels and extensive damage to marine life and corals at Rozul Reef and Escoda Shoal.
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Senator Risa Hontiveros is calling for China to pay billions of pesos for the destruction of coral reefs in the West Philippine Sea, urging a Senate inquiry and compensation for Filipino fishermen.
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The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) refuted China's claim that the Philippines is fabricating a political drama regarding coral destruction in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
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