Pag-asa Island, a peaceful and scenic spot in the West Philippine Sea, is known for its crystal-clear waters, gentle breezes, and… plastic bottles with Chinese labels? Yes, you read that right—residents of this remote island have been dealing with an unexpected and less-than-welcome visitor: trash. And based on the packaging, it looks like China’s vessels may have been sending more than just sailors their way.

According to Darlene Cay’s report on 24 Oras Weekend, locals on Pag-asa Island have been scratching their heads (and their coastlines) as piles of plastic debris—sachets, bottles, you name it—wash up on their shores. If you look closely, you’ll see Chinese characters adorning these bits of trash, leaving no mystery about their origin. Some may say it’s just ocean currents doing their thing, but Pag-asa Island coordinator Marilou Valles isn’t convinced.

“Mostly talaga basura ng China,” Valles explains. “Hindi na rin siguro nakapagtataka… Siguro tinatapon nila ang mga basura, dito talaga ang ano… sa coastal natin sa isla.” (Translation: “It’s mostly China’s trash. It’s not surprising, considering we see their vessels around. Maybe they’re tossing their garbage, and it’s all ending up here.”)

It seems the island’s residents have developed a new kind of maritime diplomacy: beach cleanups. During their most recent effort in September, the determined locals gathered a whopping 36 sacks of trash. That’s right, 36 sacks of what might as well be the West Philippine Sea’s uninvited exports. Forget about seafood and pearls—plastic debris appears to be the new hottest import.

And as if the trash wasn’t enough of an eyesore, there are always China’s Navy, Coast Guard, and militia vessels parked nearby, keeping an eye on things. Whether they’re here to defend their dubious “territorial claims” or just enjoying the scenic ocean views while tossing out the occasional soda bottle, we may never know.

Valles, ever the practical island coordinator, admitted that there’s little they can do except keep cleaning up and implement more programs to tackle the issue. Because, really, when life gives you a coastline full of garbage, what can you do but grab some gloves and trash bags?

But don’t be mistaken—Pag-asa Island residents aren’t giving up that easily. Their regular cleanup drives are proof that they care deeply about the beauty of their island home. And while Beijing may have grand territorial ambitions, it looks like they’re also sending over free souvenirs in the form of plastic wrappers and shampoo bottles.

So, next time you’re daydreaming about pristine beaches and peaceful island life, just remember: in the West Philippine Sea, it’s not all about clear blue waters and fish. Sometimes, the ocean gives you something a little more… disposable.