The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Monday called for the cease of activities that are harmful to the marine ecosystem in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
DFA made the call after the reported massive coral harvesting in the areas within the WPS that were swarmed repeatedly by several Chinese vessels.
"We are seriously concerned about reports of the destructions of corals in Rozul Reef, a maritime feature located in the Philippines' exclusive economic zone," it said in a statement.
The foreign department said the country has been raising alarm over "ecologically harmful activities conducted by foreign vessels" within its maritime zones, an issue extensively discussed in the 2016 Arbitral Award on the South China Sea.
"We, therefore, call on everyone concerned to act responsibly and cease all activities that can damage our precious marine environment," DFA said.
It stressed that the livelihoods of millions of individuals are endangered due to ecologically harmful activities.
Last September 16, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Vice Admiral Alberto Carlos reported that there had been a massive coral harvesting in Rozul Reef located within the WPS.
Speaking in a news forum, he said massive harvesting was discovered after the Navy divers conducted an underwater survey in the areas where Chinese vessels were sighted last July.
On Monday, Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) spokesperson for WPS Jay Tarriela confirmed the AFP's report, saying that the agency's recent underwater survey in both Rozul Reef and Escoda shoal revealed that marine ecosystem and coral reef were "extensively damaged."
He particularly mentioned that the marine ecosystem in Rozul as well as in Escoda "appeared lifeless with minimal to no signs of life", adding that there was "visible discoloration" in Escoda Shoal.
Tarriela said the Chinese vessels "may have directly caused the degradation and destruction of the marine environment" given that they continue to conduct "illegal and destructive fishing activities" in the aforementioned areas.
