The Philippine government accuses Chinese fishermen of dumping cyanide into the sea around the Spratly Islands, a major flashpoint in the South China Sea, aiming to destroy marine resources while preparing to lodge a diplomatic protest with Beijing.
The Philippines accuses Chinese fishermen of releasing cyanide into waters near the Spratly Islands, a disputed area in the South China Sea where there have been multiple violent clashes with Chinese vessels.
These allegations further heighten tensions in this strategically important area, a major global shipping route believed to be rich in natural resources.
The Philippine National Security Council (NSC) stated that the poisoning began in 2025 near the "Ayungin" shoal, also known as Second Thomas Shoal.
Cornelio Valencia, deputy director general of the NSC, said, "The use of cyanide in this area constitutes sabotage aimed at destroying fish populations and cutting off key food supplies for the Philippine Navy."
Moreover, it may impact the health of personnel through exposure to contaminated water or consumption of toxic seafood, as well as damage coral reefs in the area.
Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad, spokesperson for the Philippine Navy, revealed that Philippine forces seized 10 bottles of cyanide from vessels deployed from Chinese fishing boats during February, July, and October 2025.
Additionally, cyanide use was detected again last month, with seawater tests returning positive results, though there have been no reports of poisoning among personnel aboard ships.
Valencia also warned that damage to coral reefs caused by toxins could affect the structure of the BRP Sierra Madre, a World War II-era ship that the Philippines has deliberately grounded since 1999 to assert its territorial claim.
Philippine authorities said they have raised this issue with China but have yet to receive an official response from Beijing. The NSC plans to submit a report to the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs next week, which may lead to a diplomatic protest.
At the same time, the government has ordered the navy and coast guard to increase patrols in the area to prevent further environmental damage.
The South China Sea is a disputed region among several Southeast Asian countries, with China claiming nearly the entire area despite an international tribunal ruling that its claim lacks legal basis.
Earlier, in June 2024, violent clashes occurred when Chinese coast guard personnel armed with knives, sticks, and axes boarded a Philippine Navy vessel.
. Source:channelnewsasia
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