South China Sea: Philippines set to file case over reef damages against Beijing within weeks

While analysts say such a move would have little chance of being heard in an international court, it could highlight China’s ecological irresponsibility.

Department of Justice spokesman Mico Clavano said on Thursday the agency was working with the Office of the Solicitor General to file the complaint backed by solid evidence showing the damaged coral reefs around the Sabina Shoal and other illegal acts such as Chinese fishermen harvesting endangered giant clams.

“But we are confident that in a few weeks, we will complete our complaint and the attached evidence,” Clavano told reporters. “So hopefully, with the help of the Office of the Solicitor General, we will be able to file an environmental case against China.”

The situation at the Sabina Shoal mirrors recent events at Sandy Cay near Pag-asa Island in the West Philippine Sea, where coral reefs were severely damaged due to the actions of Chinese fishermen and debris was strewn throughout the area, according to Philippine authorities.

The West Philippine Sea is Manila’s term for the section of the South China Sea that encompasses its maritime territory, including its exclusive economic zone.

The idea of filing a complaint against China started in September 2023 when Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla learned from the Philippine military about massive coral harvesting at the Rozul Reef seabed, another feature within the Philippines’ internationally recognised exclusive economic zone. Remulla said then that Manila might file legal action against Beijing in 2024.

The Rozul reefs are near the island of Palawan, a southwestern Philippine island bordering the disputed waters.

In 2016, the Permanent Court of Arbitration at The Hague ruled in favour of the Philippines on a case