Philippines calls on China to open Scarborough Shoal to scrutiny

Manila's 'challenge' follows accusations of environmental destruction by Beijing

20240520 Scarborough Shoal environmental destruction

In this undated photo provided by the Philippine Coast Guard on Sept. 26, 2023, a diver cuts a rope tied to a floating barrier near Scarborough Shoal. (Philippine Coast Guard via AP)

RAMON ROYANDOYAN, Nikkei staff writer

May 20, 2024 14:11 JST

MANILA -- The Philippines has demanded that China open Scarborough Shoal to international scrutiny, accusing Beijing of destroying a lagoon's ecosystem.

The call came on Monday from the National Security Council after the Philippine Coast Guard revealed reports of marine destruction within a lagoon inside the Scarborough Shoal.