The Philippines has discovered cyanide on Chinese boats operating around a disputed atoll in the South China Sea, security officials said on Monday.
Authorities said laboratory tests confirmed the presence of the highly toxic substance in bottles seized by the Philippine navy during operations at Second Thomas Shoal last year.
Environmental and Security Concerns
Officials warned the cyanide could have serious consequences for marine life and weaken the reef supporting a grounded warship used by Manila to reinforce its maritime claim.
“We wish to underscore that the use of cyanide in Ayungin Shoal is a form of sabotage that seeks to kill local fish populations, depriving Navy personnel of a vital food source,” said Cornelio Valencia, referring to the Philippines’ name for the atoll.
He added that the substance could damage the reef and “ultimately compromise” the stability of the warship.
The Chinese embassy in Manila did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Rising Tensions at Sea
The Philippines has accused China of disrupting resupply missions to troops stationed on the vessel, including a June 17, 2024 incident that turned violent and resulted in a Filipino sailor losing a finger.
China has denied allegations of aggressive conduct and has accused the Philippines of trespassing in its waters.
The confrontation later led to a provisional understanding between the two sides on resupply missions to the grounded ship.
Diplomatic Efforts and Disputes
China and the Philippines held high-level talks last month to explore preliminary steps towards oil and gas co-operation, as well as confidence-building measures at sea, including communication between their coast guards.
The Philippine foreign ministry said the scope of any co-operation would remain limited and would not include sensitive operational areas, adding that joint patrols were not discussed.
China claims nearly all of the South China Sea, including areas also claimed by Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines and Vietnam.
A 2016 ruling by an international arbitral tribunal found Beijing’s sweeping claims had no basis under international law, a decision China rejects.
(with inputs from Reuters)
