Collaboration key to protecting West Philippine Sea

MANILA, Philippines —   Marine science and geopolitical experts are now calling on the government, private sector and the international community to collaborate to protect the country’s marine environment in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) amid reports of massive coral destruction due to China’s continuous illegal activities in the area.

Speaking at a marine conservation forum organized by the Stratbase ADR Institute in partnership with the Embassy of Australia in the Philippines earlier this week, they said the key to achieving the goal is working together as a team.

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla noted during the discussions the massive coral destruction in the WPS due to China’s reclamation activities.

She cited the Center for Strategic and International Studies’ report that showed 21,000 acres of coral reefs damaged by these illegal Chinese activities.

To combat further harmful activity, Padilla said the government stationed the biggest coast guard vessel in Escoda Shoal to prevent Chinese reclamation following the dumping of dead corals in the area.

“This is not just an AFP concern but the whole international community, and that’s why I believe that as like-minded nations, we are one in the same goal of having a free and open Indo-Pacific,” she stressed.

Stratbase ADR Institute president Dindo Manhit said the joint efforts among all sectors of society and international community is necessary to protect our seas and oceans and to uphold the rules-based international order.

From Philstar