DFA expresses ‘serious concern’ over massive coral harvesting in WPS

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Monday expressed serious concern over the reported damage to the marine environment and corals of Rozul Reef in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

DFA spokesperson Teresita Daza said the Philippines has “consistently raised the alarm over ecologically harmful activities, conducted by foreign vessels, in our maritime zones, an issue extensively discussed in the 2016 Arbitral Award on the South China Sea (SCS).”

“We, therefore, call on everyone concerned to act responsibly and cease all activities that can damage our precious marine environment. The well-being of millions of people who depend on the South China Sea for their livelihood is at stake,” she added.

Over the weekend, the Armed Forces of the Philippines Western Command (AFP-WesCom) said there was massive coral harvesting in Rozul Reef.

WesCom Commander Vice Admiral Albert Carlos said this was discovered after the military sent out its divers to survey areas where Chinese military militia (CMM) vessels were seen swarming.

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Monday likewise confirmed the reported damage after the BRP Sindangan and BRP Cabra held maritime patrols after 33 Chinese ships were spotted in Rozul Reef and 15 in Escoda Shoal from August 9 to September 11.

Senator Francis Tolentino earlier linked the reported removal and destruction of corals in the WPS to a possible reclamation project in the area.

Maritime law expert Jay Batongbacal said there was also a possibility that the corals were being used by China as materials for decorations, ornaments, and jewelry.

Reacting to the report, Japan's Ambassador to the Philippines Kazuhiko Koshikawa said on X that this latest development was "very alarming news."

"Our oceans are the lifeblood of our planet, & coral reefs are its colorful heartbeats. Let's preserve & protect these vital ecosystems for generations to come," he said.

The Chinese Embassy responded to this tweet, calling Wescom's reports of coral damage "disinformation." — Sundy Locus/BM, GMA Integrated News