Tensions among claimant countries will likely flare up with continued Chinese reclamation works in the disputed islands of the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
This was stressed by Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff Gen. Gregorio Pio Catapang during Monday’s press briefing on China’s continued reclamation works in Subi and Mischief Reefs.
“We have compelling reasons to raise our voice to tell the whole world the adverse effects of China’s aggressiveness that has created tensions not only among the countries who have overlapping claims in the area, but also among the countries around the world who are using the international sea lanes in the WPS for trade and commerce,” he added.
Catapang also said that China’s massive reclamation activities are causing irreversible and widespread damage to the biodiversity and ecological balance of the West Philippine Sea.
“China’s claim that its activities has not caused damage to the ecological environment in this area is not acceptable,” the AFP chief added.
For example, the destruction of 300 acres of coral reef systems resulting from the reclamations is estimated to lead to economic losses to coastal states valued at USD100 million annually.
“We are saddened hearing the reports that China has driven away Filipino fishermen near these reclamation sites and also in Bajo de Masinloc, denying our people of their own fishing areas which are the sources of their livelihood,” Catapang said.
Manila Bulletin
