China eyes stricter Scarborough Shoal measures, accuses PHL of reef damage

CHINA will impose “strict protection measures” at the disputed Scarborough Shoal to prevent further environmental damage there, according to a Chinese government report, which also accused the Philippines of damaging the maritime feature's ecosystem.

- By Kenneth Christiane L. Basilio

Chinese authorities will enhance their monitoring of the shoal while carrying out conservation work to strengthen its nature reserve in the feature, based on the report compiled by research groups under Beijing’s Ministry of Natural Resources, a copy of which was obtained by BusinessWorld.

“China will further improve the regular alerting and monitoring mechanism on Huangyan Dao, and consistently carry out surveys, studies, conservation and restoration to maintain and enhance the diversity, stability and sustainability of the coral reef ecosystem,” it said, referring to the shoal by its Chinese name, which the Philippines calls Panatag.

The Philippines and China both claim Scarborough Shoal, which is prized for its rich ecosystem and proximity to key shipping lanes. The dispute over its ownership is part of the wider South China Sea tensions that have strained ties between Beijing, Manila and their allies.