My country, the Philippines, is home to a rich and diverse marine life located in the West Philippine Sea. Alarmingly, this natural treasure is under serious threat due to China's destructive activities. National sovereignty and local livelihoods are at risk, but equally as disturbing is the impending devastation of fragile marine ecosystems that are essential for life and biodiversity. These marine ecosystems not only bequeath us with breathtaking biodiversity, but they also contribute significantly to our national economy and food security.

The West Philippine Sea is part of the Coral Triangle, which hosts 76% of the world’s known coral species. However, China's land reclamation activities have already caused the destruction of over 300 acres of coral reefs, with an annual economic loss estimated to be $281 million (John McManus, University of Miami Rosenstiel School).

This petition is a plea for urgent and immediate action to stop these detrimental activities and to adopt measures for the conservation and protection of marine lives in the West Philippine Sea. It is our duty to safeguard these natural resources and the life they sustain, for current and future generations. China's activities pose a grave threat to this responsibility and must be halted immediately. We owe it to our children and grandchildren, to leave behind a world that thrives in its natural richness.

Join me in taking a stand today. Sign the petition for the preservation of marine life in the West Philippine Sea.