The Philippine government has formally accused China of dumping cyanide near contested reefs in the South China Sea, according to documents obtained by SOFX. The alleged chemical pollution threatens marine ecosystems in the Spratly Islands, where both nations maintain competing territorial claims.
Fisheries officials report detecting toxic concentrations near Scarborough Shoal, a key fishing ground occupied by China since 2012. ‘We’ve documented coral bleaching patterns consistent with cyanide exposure,’ stated an anonymous marine biologist consulted by the Department of Environment.
The accusation comes amid heightened maritime confrontations, including last month’s water cannon incident near Second Thomas Shoal. Analysts suggest the environmental charge represents a new front in Manila’s legal strategy following its 2016 arbitration victory at The Hague.
When reached for comment, China’s Foreign Ministry dismissed the allegations as ‘baseless fabrications’ and reiterated its sovereignty over the area. Satellite imagery reviewed by regional security experts shows increased Chinese vessel activity near the affected reefs throughout February.
Environmental lawyers note this marks the first time Manila has invoked UNCLOS Article 192’s environmental protection clauses against Beijing. The move could pave the way for renewed international arbitration or sanctions under the London Convention on marine pollution.