The South China Sea

MANILA, Philippines — Last June 13, Dr. John McManus shared something vital to the entire world, and I want to personally thank him for his insights and concern.

The South China Sea is no ordinary sea. It is one of the most diverse and richest part of the global ocean. It harbors at least over 570 species of reef-building coral, out of less than 1,000 found worldwide.

It is responsible for over 15 percent of global fish catch and the larvae from its coral reefs replenish the Pacific Ocean day in and day out.

The coral reefs in the South China Sea not only house some of the most diverse of the world’s marine ecosystems, they also regenerate themselves rapidly following typhoons. 

The only obstacle to this resilience is manmade activities, including the creation of artificial islands, which have been burying the ecosystems deep in sediment and concrete.

There is also a resurgence of giant clam harvesting, now using highly destructive methods. One method digs up reef flats via reinforced propellers while another involves pressurized water.

This industry is driven by the high market values of the giant clamshells, typically worth hundreds to thousands of dollars each. The shells are carved into a multitude of ivory-like products.

The Chinese authorities cannot completely abate this activity.

Many Chinese fishermen, as well as marine biologists and citizens are aware of this practice and are greatly concerned about this threat to the richness of South China Sea’s coral reefs.  

They are aware that any further destruction will affect them and the region, which is a source of food, income and pride for current and future generations.

The University of the Philippines Marine Science Institute and the East-West Center in Honolulu share these concerns, too.

It is for this reason that we strongly feel that the best solution is to establish international marine peace parks covering Scarborough Shoal and the Spratly Islands to ensure their integrity.

Although the South China Sea has vast oil reserves, the amount existing adjacent to the offshore coral reefs is known to be nearly negligible. The value of the coral reefs far outweighs what little oil and gas there is to be found among the reefs.