China Coast Guard (CCG) and Chinese militia vessels engaged in aggressive actions against Philippine boats in the West Philippine Sea, escalating tensions in the disputed waters.
The Chinese ships “harassed, blocked, deployed water cannons, and executed dangerous maneuvers” against Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) patrol vessels BRP Cabra and BRP Sindangan conducting a resupply operation.
Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) spokesperson Commodore Jay Tarriela detailed the hostile encounter, noting the confrontation resulted in a collision with CCG vessel 21555, inflicting slight structural damage to the Philippine craft.
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Additionally, the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea reported that CCG ships 21555 and 21551 targeted the civilian boat Unaizah May 4 with water cannons, breaking its windshield and injuring four crew members. This assault forced the vessel to retreat to Palawan, while its counterpart, Unaizah May 1, successfully completed the resupply mission to the stationed troops at BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal.
The Philippine authorities condemned China’s unprovoked aggression and the hazardous tactics employed against the legitimate resupply effort, highlighting the risks and actual harm inflicted on Filipino personnel.
The persistent and deliberate nature of China’s actions raises doubts about its commitment to peaceful dialogue and the de-escalation of regional tensions.
Meanwhile, China’s state media asserted that the CCG’s actions were legal measures against unauthorized Philippine entry into the waters near Ayungin Shoal, which China refers to as Ren’ai Jiao.
Despite an international court ruling invalidating China’s extensive territorial claims in the South China Sea, it continues to assert sovereignty and frequently obstructs Philippine operations in the area.
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. affirmed the country’s intention to engage in discussions with China while vowing to defend its sovereign rights against violations.
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