Manila Bulletin
PCG tells China: PH’s concerns over coral destruction not mere drama
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).
PCG spokesperson Commodore Jay Tarriela stated that the destruction of corals is a "violent act and a serious crime against humanity," not a political drama.
The PCG and the Armed Forces of the Philippines' Western Command (WesCom) reported that coral reefs in Rozul Reef and Escoda Shoal have been crushed and harvested, making the marine environment lifeless.
This destruction has been linked to the presence of Chinese militia vessels in the area.
The Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) is considering filing a lawsuit against China before an international court.
The PCG also countered China's claims about the BRP Sierra Madre polluting the waters, attributing environmental damage to Chinese Maritime Militia vessels.
Philippine Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro criticized China's statements on environmental damage as hypocritical.
Topics in this story
Explore more stories about these topics.
🤖
This story was generated by AI to help you understand the key points. For more detailed coverage, please see the news articles from trusted media outlets below.
News Sources
See how different news organizations are covering this story. Below are the original articles from various Philippine news sources that contributed to this summary.
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.
+3
Read more →
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.
+3
Read more →
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has discovered severe damage to marine life in the West Philippine Sea, specifically at Rozul Reef and Escoda Shoal.
+1
Read more →
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.
Read more →
Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri urged the Chinese Embassy in Manila to cease the destruction of marine resources in the West Philippine Sea, specifically at Rozul Reef.
Read more →