Cyanide seized from Chinese boats around BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal —NSC

The National Security Council (NSC) on Monday said bottles seized from Chinese boats operating near the BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal contained cyanide, a highly toxic chemical.

In a press briefing, NSC spokesperson Cornelio Valencia Jr. said the Philippine Navy recovered the bottles on February 20 and October 24, 2025.

These bottles were tested by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Forensic and Scientific Research Service.

“The NSC officially announces that the laboratory test has confirmed that the yellow bottles recovered by the Philippine Navy from Chinese sampans operating around BRP Sierra Madre have been positively found to contain cyanide,” Valencia said.

Cyanide is a dangerous substance capable of causing “severe and irreversible damage” to marine life, coral reefs, and human health, according to Valencia.

Its use is often associated with illegal and destructive fishing practices, he added.

For the NSC, the presence of cyanide in the area raises serious concerns over activities that may threaten Philippine Navy personnel in BRP Sierra Madre, as well as the livelihoods of Filipino fisherfolk.

He also cautioned that cyanide can degrade coral reefs surrounding the shoal, potentially affecting the structural stability of the Sierra Madre.

The NSC described the reported use of hazardous substances by Chinese vessels in the area as “irresponsible and unacceptable.”

Valencia pointed out that such actions may violate Philippine environmental laws and international maritime norms.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) are now directed to heighten maritime domain awareness, strengthen patrols, and prevent further environmental harm.

Ayungin Shoal is a submerged reef in the Spratly Islands. The shoal is located 105 nautical miles west of Palawan and is within the Philippines' 200-mile exclusive economic zone (EEZ). —AOL, GMA News