Philippines Denounces China's 'Irresponsible and Hazardous Actions' in South China Sea
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Synopsis
The Philippines has voiced deep concerns over a Chinese vessel's dangerous maneuvers against its Coast Guard in the South China Sea, condemning the actions as reckless and a violation of sovereignty. This incident highlights ongoing tensions in the region over maritime rights.
Key Takeaways
- Philippines raises concerns over Chinese vessel's actions.
- Philippine Coast Guard shows professionalism in response.
- Senate Majority Leader condemns violation of sovereignty.
- Incident highlights ongoing South China Sea tensions.
- China's assertiveness raises regional concerns.
Manila, April 7 (NationPress) In a continuing display of China's aggressive behavior in the region, the Philippines has expressed grave concerns regarding a Chinese vessel's irresponsible and hazardous maneuvers against a Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) vessel in the South China Sea.
The Philippine Coast Guard reported that the Chinese vessel CCG-3302 made several attempts to collide with the rear of the PCG vessel, BRP Cabra.
Philippine Coast Guard Spokesperson Jay Tarriela noted that due to the superior maneuverability of the PCG vessel, the China Coast Guard resorted to deploying a smaller, faster vessel, CCG-21612, in a further attempt to ram the PCG vessel.
“Despite these aggressive actions, the professionalism, composure, and seamanship of the PCG sailors successfully outmatched the reckless tactics employed by the two China Coast Guard vessels. The BRP Cabra continues to monitor and confront CCG-3302, demonstrating unwavering determination in the face of intimidation,” Tarriela shared on X.
“The PCG remains committed to following the explicit guidance of PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan, which stresses maintaining a high degree of professionalism to prevent escalation while embodying a fearless spirit of patriotism. In alignment with the direction of Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr., the PCG is dedicated to fulfilling its responsibilities in protecting the nation's maritime interests,” he added.
In a related development, Philippines Senate Majority Leader Francis Tolentino condemned the “reckless and dangerous” actions of a Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) vessel that nearly collided with a Philippine patrol ship in disputed waters off Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal on Sunday, calling it a flagrant violation of international law and an affront to Philippine sovereignty.
Tolentino emphasized that Panatag Shoal lies well within the Philippines' Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), as upheld by the 2016 ruling of the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague, according to state-run news agency PNA.
“This aggressive maneuver not only endangered the lives of our brave maritime personnel but also constitutes a blatant violation of international law and the Philippines' sovereign rights,” he stated.
China's increasing assertiveness in the South China Sea has become a rising concern for numerous Southeast Asian nations, including the Philippines. China continues to assert extensive claims of sovereignty over the South China Sea, which is rich in untapped natural resources, including oil and natural gas.
