Philippines Takes Legal Action Against China's Coral Reef Destruction in South China Sea

The Philippines has accused China's maritime militia of deliberately destroying coral reefs in the South China Sea. Videos released by the Philippine Coast Guard showed bleached corals in underwater features within the country's exclusive economic zone. China has rejected the accusation, claiming "false and groundless" allegations. The destruction of the reefs highlights the threats of coral harvesting and raises suspicions about China's plans to militarize the atolls through reclamation. Western marine security experts and officials have accused China of using civilian fishing vessels as a maritime militia to assert its territorial claims. The Philippines' calls for transparency have garnered international support, with foreign ambassadors expressing alarm over the destruction of marine resources.