The Philippine government will not tolerate the use of cyanide by fishermen in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), the Department of Justice (DOJ) declared on Wednesday, Feb. 21.
“Under the leadership of President Marcos Jr., the Philippines will not tolerate any actions that harm our environment or deprive Filipino people of their right to its use and beauty,” Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin C. Remulla said in a statement.
Remulla's statement was in response to reports that Chinese and Vietnamese fishermen have been allegedly using cyanide for fishing in Bajo de Masinloc, also known as Scarborough Shoal in the WPS.
He said the DOJ will actively support relevant agencies in gathering evidence and building a strong legal case against those behind the destructive practice.
Prior this report on the use of cyanide, Remulla reminded that the DOJ, as the government’s principal law agency, has been actively involved in the country’s ongoing legal action against China over the grounding of its Coast Guard vessels near Rozul Reef and Escoda Shoal that resulted in significant damage to the area’s fragile coral ecosystem.
“The impact on these coral reefs is devastating,” lamented Remulla.
“These ecosystems are vital not only for marine biodiversity but also for the livelihoods of Filipino fisherfolk. We are committed to ensuring proper accountability for such acts,” he assured.
He reiterated that the DOJ has already initiated its study into legal remedies by meticulously gathering evidence and collaborating with Philippine marine scientists to quantify the environmental and economic damage inflicted.