Philippines accuses Chinese fishermen of devastating giant clams in disputed waters
The Philippine coast guard has accused Chinese fishermen of decimating giant clams in a lagoon at Scarborough Shoal, sparking environmental concerns. Surveillance photos showed Chinese fishermen harvesting large numbers of clams until March 2019. The Philippines has called for an international inquiry into the damage. Territorial tensions have escalated in the South China Sea, with the US pledging to defend the Philippines if attacked by China.
China has claimed sovereignty over much of the area, leading to conflicts with neighboring countries. The Philippines has sought international support by publicizing China’s actions. Despite winning arbitration against China in 2016, the Chinese government continues to defy the ruling. The Philippines has proposed involving third-party groups to assess the environmental impact of the dispute. The situation remains tense, with both sides engaged in naval standoffs and skirmishes.
This news brings attention to the ongoing territorial disputes in the South China Sea and highlights the environmental consequences of such conflicts.