Chinese fishermen’s use of cyanide in Ayungin is ‘unacceptable’ — DFA

MANILA, Philippines — The use of cyanide in Ayungin Shoal is “irresponsible and unacceptable,” the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said on Wednesday.

This came after the National Security Council recently reported that authorities had confiscated chemicals such as cyanide from Chinese fisherfolk in Ayungin Shoal in 2025.

“The use of cyanide and other similar toxic agents in the marine environment is irresponsible and unacceptable, and runs counter to obligations of States Parties under the 1982 UNCLOS, particularly the duty to protect and preserve the marine environment and prevent pollution at sea,” the DFA said in a statement.

READ: Sailors cite repeated cyanide fishing in Ayungin, China claim rejected

Cyanide is a substance that causes harm to marine life and could damage the reef.

The DFA said it will determine the “appropriate diplomatic action” upon receiving the formal report of the authorities regarding the matter.

“The Philippines will continue to monitor and call out any infringements on its sovereignty, sovereign rights and jurisdiction across all its maritime zones,” the DFA vowed.

READ: West Philippine Sea: China dumping cyanide in Spratlys, PH says

Also known as the Second Thomas Shoal, the Ayungin Shoal is a submerged reef 105 nautical miles west of Palawan.

It is among the areas in the South China Sea that have long been the subject of territorial dispute between China and the Philippines.

Presently, a Manila warship is grounded above the reef to reinforce the maritime claim awarded to the Philippines in 2016. /mcm