The Philippines has accused Chinese fishermen of dumping cyanide in waters around the Spratly Islands, with Manila describing the alleged poisoning as an act of sabotage intended to kill local fish populations and deprive Filipino troops stationed at Second Thomas Shoal of a crucial food source. China dismissed the claim as a farce. The Philippines reports evidence from seizures and tests, including that Filipino troops seized 10 bottles of cyanide from sampan boats allegedly launched from Chinese fishing vessels in February, July, and October last year. Military personnel also spotted another Chinese sampan crew poisoning waters near the shoal last month, and samples later tested positive for cyanide.
The Philippine response includes diplomatic moves, increased patrols, and concerns over health and environmental damage. Manila had raised the alleged poisoning with Beijing at a recent meeting but had received no formal response. The NSC intends to submit a report to the foreign ministry that could form the basis of a diplomatic protest, and the navy and coastguard have been ordered to increase patrols in the area. The alleged poisoning also poses health risks to troops by contaminating the water and fish, and could damage the coral reefs that help support the vessel's structural foundations.
Background on timing, legal context, and counter-accusations from China indicates the alleged poisoning began last year around Second Thomas Shoal. Cyanide fishing is illegal under Philippine law and widely banned across Southeast Asia because of its destructive impact on marine ecosystems. In response, China has accused the Philippines of illegal harassment of Chinese fishing vessels engaged in normal fishing activities.