21-2-2024 (MANILA) The decision to pursue environmental charges against China lies in the hands of the president, stated Solicitor General Menardo Guevarra on Tuesday, addressing President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s recent disclosure of the government’s contemplation of filing a case against China. This is pending the confirmation of the alleged use of cyanide in fishing in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
In an interview with reporters, Guevarra clarified that while the Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) is tasked with presenting legal options to the Philippine government, the ultimate decision to initiate any legal action rests with the president, in consultation with the National Task Force on the WPS.
Guevarra stressed the importance of verifying the allegations before proceeding with charges. He mentioned that a potential complaint for environmental damage is under consideration, particularly in response to the recent report on cyanide use off Scarborough shoal. However, Guevarra emphasized the need for careful factual verification of the serious claims.
Should China’s actions in the West Philippine Sea be substantiated, Guevarra assured collaboration with various relevant agencies, including the Department of Foreign Affairs, the Department of Justice (DOJ), the National Security Council (NSC), and members of the National Task Force on the WPS. He highlighted the necessity for any legal action to be supported by robust and competent evidence capable of withstanding international tribunal scrutiny.
Simultaneously, the DOJ has initiated a comprehensive study into legal remedies, gathering evidence and collaborating with marine scientists to assess the potential environmental and economic impacts of China’s alleged actions. Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla emphasized the vital role of ecosystems not only for marine biodiversity but also for the livelihoods of Filipino fisherfolk.
On Tuesday, the NSC announced its investigation into a report from the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, alleging that Chinese fishermen intentionally used cyanide to disrupt fishing grounds, hindering Filipino fishermen in the area. The Chinese foreign ministry refuted the report, dismissing the alleged use of cyanide as a “sheer fabrication.”
Cyanide fishing, an environmentally harmful practice involving the release of toxic chemicals onto coral reefs to stun fish, poses a threat to marine life and damages coral reefs.
