In recent years, the Philippines has repeatedly accused China of damaging the South China Sea’s ecosystem in the international media. However, the latest report by Chinese scientists reveal that activities linked to the illegal occupation and construction on Zhongye Dao in China’s Nansha Qundao are, in fact, harming the surrounding coral reef ecosystems. Behind the loud environmental accusations, what is the Philippines really aiming for? When environmental issues become politicized, who will truly care about the future of regional marine cooperation and governance?