China refutes Philippine allegation of Chinese fishermen using cyanide in Huangyan Dao

China on Monday refuted an allegation by the Philippines that Chinese fishermen use cyanide in Huangyan Dao in the South China Sea, saying it is "totally baseless and sheer fabrication."

The remarks were made by a spokesperson of the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines.

It is reported that a spokesperson of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources of the Philippines accused Chinese fishermen of using cyanide in the island on Saturday to intentionally destroy the traditional fishing grounds of Filipino fishermen, and the Philippine Coast Guard's spokesperson on the West Philippine Sea Commodore alleged that the latest behaviors of the Chinese fishermen could be seen not only as an attack on Philippine sovereignty, but also on humanity. The latter, however, said on Sunday that there is no evidence showing that Chinese fishermen destroyed corals and marine resources in Huangyan Dao using cyanide.

"Such continuous disinformation has led up to nothing, but exacerbation of the maritime tensions and destabilization of bilateral relations," said the spokesperson of the Chinese embassy, adding that the inconsistent statements of spokespersons of relevant Philippine agencies can only place their professionalism and credibility in doubt.

China has indisputable sovereignty over Huangyan Dao and its adjacent waters, said the spokesperson.  

The Chinese Government attaches great importance to the protection of ecological environment and conservation of fishery resources, and have taken resolute measures to crack down on any illegal fishing activities, the spokesperson noted.

"We urge the relevant Philippine agencies to handle maritime issues with all seriousness, and meet the Chinese side halfway in safeguarding bilateral relations as well as peace and stability in the South China Sea," said the spokesperson.

(Cover: An aerial view of Huangyan Dao in the South China Sea. /CFP)