DoJ assures WPS protection vs cyanide fishers

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla expressed his full support to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in his unwavering commitment to protecting the West Philippine Sea and its vast resources.

Remulla said the Department of Justice is determined to address the alleged use of cyanide by Chinese and Vietnamese fishermen at Bajo de Masinloc or Scarborough Shoal.

“Under the leadership of President Marcos Jr., the Philippines will not tolerate any actions that harm our environment or deprive Filipino people of their right to its use and beauty,” Remulla said.

The DoJ, he added, will support the relevant agencies in gathering evidence and building a solid legal case against those behind the destructive practice.

As the government’s principal law agency, the DoJ has been actively involved in the country’s ongoing legal action against China over the grounding of its Coast Guard vessels near Rozul Reef and Escoda Shoal, which significantly damaged the area’s fragile coral ecosystem.

The DoJ initiated its study into legal remedies by meticulously gathering evidence and collaborating with Philippine marine scientists to quantify the environmental and economic damage inflicted.

He added that he sought the advice of international law experts to explore legal strategies and forums.

“The impact on these coral reefs is devastating,” Remulla said. “These ecosystems are vital not only for marine biodiversity but also to the livelihoods of Filipino fisherfolk. We are committed to ensuring proper accountability for such acts.”