The West Philippine Sea (WPS), the waters within the Philippines’ 200-nautical-mile exclusive economic zone (EEZ), is vital to the Philippines’ economic well-being, environmental health, and national security.
Yet, China’s growing influence in the region, characterized by land reclamation, illegal fishing practices, and the destruction of marine ecosystems, poses a significant threat not only to the Philippines’ sovereignty but to the region’s future. These actions cannot be ignored, as they undermine international law, damage critical ecosystems, and jeopardize the livelihoods of millions of Filipinos.
Land reclamation and militarization: Threat to sovereignty
China’s land reclamation activities in the South China Sea, particularly in areas like Mischief Reef, Subi Reef, and Fiery Cross Reef, directly violate the Philippines’ EEZ.
In defiance of the 2016 Permanent Court of Arbitration ruling, China has reclaimed over 3,200 acres (1,295 hectares) of land. These artificial islands now host military facilities, including airstrips, radar systems, and missile platforms, turning what should be peaceful waters into a militarized zone. This aggressive expansion not only undermines Philippine sovereignty but also destabilizes the region, turning the South China Sea into a potential flashpoint for conflict.
Illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing: Depleting resources
China’s fleet of fishing vessels, many of which operate under the cover of its maritime militia, has been reported engaging in illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing within the Philippines’ EEZ.
The U.S. Coast Guard estimates that China deploys around 17,000 vessels annually in the South China Sea, with many operating in Philippine waters, further exacerbating overfishing. These actions deprive Filipinos of access to resources that are rightfully theirs.
In 2023, Filipino fishermen reported being harassed by Chinese vessels, which used water cannons and intimidation tactics to drive them from traditional fishing grounds. This is more than a territorial dispute — it is a matter of livelihood, as the Philippines’ fishing industry is a crucial sector that provides both food and employment to millions.
Environmental destruction: Irreversible harm to marine ecosystems
One of the most alarming consequences of China’s actions in the West Philippine Sea is the destruction of the region’s marine ecosystems. The University of the Philippines Marine Science Institute reports that China’s dredging and land reclamation projects have already destroyed 16,000 hectares of coral reefs, causing a loss of US$100 billion in ecosystem services. Coral reefs, which are essential to sustaining fish populations, are being decimated at an alarming rate.
Furthermore, destructive fishing practices like cyanide and dynamite fishing, which have been documented in the region, exacerbate the ecological damage, threatening the survival of marine life and reducing biodiversity.
The Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative further reveals that China’s artificial island-building activities in the region have destroyed 1,800 hectares of coral reefs. This environmental destruction not only damages marine life but also undermines the region’s resilience to climate change, weakening the Philippines’ natural defenses against rising sea levels and extreme weather events.
Consequences for the Philippines
China’s actions in the West Philippine Sea are not only an affront to international law but also pose serious threats to the Philippines’ economy, food security, and environmental stability. The fishing industry, which contributes around 1.3 percent to the country’s GDP and employs over 1.6 million Filipinos, faces devastating losses due to depleted fish stocks and restricted access to fishing grounds. The continued decline in resources will exacerbate economic hardships, especially for coastal communities that rely on fishing as their primary livelihood.
With fish accounting for over half of the protein intake in the Philippines, particularly in coastal communities, the depletion of fish stocks in the West Philippine Sea exacerbates food insecurity. This is not just an economic issue; it is a matter of national health and stability.
The destruction of coral reefs and marine ecosystems in the West Philippine Sea undermines the region’s biodiversity and weakens its ability to withstand climate change impacts, such as rising sea levels and stronger typhoons. The loss of these ecosystems could have long-term consequences for both the environment and the people who depend on it for survival.
By militarizing the West Philippine Sea, China is not only violating the Philippines’ rights under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) but also eroding the country’s sovereignty over its EEZ. The continued militarization of reefs and China’s aggressive stance pose a direct challenge to Philippine territorial integrity.
The Philippines must act decisively to address China’s growing threat. Strengthening alliances with nations like the United States, Japan, and Australia is crucial for collective action against maritime aggression. On the global stage, the Philippines should champion international condemnation of China’s territorial and environmental violations.
Domestically, the government must prioritize supporting Filipino fishermen by deploying more coast guard vessels and ensuring their access to traditional fishing grounds. Long-term environmental rehabilitation, including restoring coral reefs and marine ecosystems, is equally critical to sustaining resources for future generations.
China’s actions in the West Philippine Sea are not just a challenge to Philippine sovereignty — they threaten regional stability, environmental sustainability, and the livelihoods of millions. The time for decisive action is now; what we lose today may never be recovered tomorrow.
Photo credit: iStock/ Ruelito Pine
