Philippines says China should allow scrutiny of Scarborough Shoal

The Philippines challenged China on Monday to open Scarborough Shoal to international scrutiny after it accused Beijing of destroying the shoal's marine environment. “In order for the world to find out if China indeed has fulfilled its obligations under international law, buksan natin yung (let us open) Bajo de Masinloc to international scrutiny,” National Security Council spokesperson Jonathan Malaya told a press conference. “We can ask third party environmental groups or even the United Nations to do a fact-finding mission to determine the environmental situation in Bajo de Masinloc,” he added. Evidence and information, Malaya said, are being gathered for a possible filing of another case, particularly an environmental case, against China. These will be submitted to the Department of Justice and Office of the Solicitor General, who will then decide if the Philippines will pursue another case. "We are alarmed and worried about the situation that's happening there," Malaya said. ...