The Philippines has accused Chinese fishermen of pouring cyanide into waters around the Spratly Islands in the disputed South China Sea. The National Security Council (NSC) alleges this poisoning began last year near Second Thomas Shoal, a flashpoint rich in minerals and vital shipping lanes.
NSC assistant director-general Cornelio Valencia stated the cyanide use aims to kill local fish populations, a sabotage tactic that also threatens Filipino Navy personnel through exposure and coral erosion. Manila and Beijing have a history of maritime territorial disputes, including a violent clash in June 2024.
Philippine Navy spokesman Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad reported that Filipino troops seized 10 bottles of cyanide from Chinese sampan boats in February, July, and October of last year. Soldiers also observed poisoning near the shoal last month, with subsequent water tests confirming cyanide presence. The Philippines plans to submit a report for a potential diplomatic protest and is increasing patrols to prevent further environmental harm.