The Department of Justice (DOJ) announced on Wednesday its firm stance against the use of cyanide fishing in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla emphasized the government’s commitment to holding accountable those involved in such destructive practices.
“Under the leadership of President Marcos Jr., the Philippines will not tolerate any actions that harm our environment or deprive our people of their right to its resources,” Remulla declared in a statement.
This strong reaction follows reports of alleged cyanide fishing activities by Chinese and Vietnamese fishermen in Bajo de Masinloc, also known as Scarborough Shoal.
The DOJ, according to Remulla, is actively collaborating with relevant agencies to gather evidence and build a robust legal case against those responsible.
Remulla highlighted the department’s ongoing involvement in the legal action against China for the grounding of their Coast Guard vessels near Rozul Reef and Escoda Shoal, causing significant damage to the coral ecosystem.
“The impact on these coral reefs is devastating,” Remulla lamented. “These ecosystems are crucial not only for marine life but also for the livelihoods of Filipino fisherfolk. We are committed to ensuring accountability for such acts.”
The DOJ has already initiated legal studies, meticulously gathering evidence and collaborating with marine scientists, to quantify the environmental and economic damage inflicted by these illegal fishing practices.