Tensions flared in the South China Sea on Monday after the Philippines accused China’s coast guard ships of firing water cannons at two of its vessels, disrupting Manila’s aid distribution to fishermen.
Accusing Beijing of harassment and damaging one of its boats in a disputed area, the Philippine Coast Guard claimed that its vessels stood their ground at the Scarborough Shoal, but one sustained damage from water cannons fired by two Chinese coast guard ships.
The incident occurred at around 10am on Monday, when the Philippine vessels encountered “obstruction” by Chinese vessels, Philippine coast guard spokesperson Jay Tarriela said.
The vessels were “assigned to carry out a legitimate maritime patrol in the waters near Bajo De Masinloc”, he said, adding that the “primary objective of this mission was to distribute fuel and food supplies” to support the fishermen.
“This damage serves as evidence of the forceful water pressure used by the China coast guard in their harassment of the Philippine vessels,” the spokesperson added. “They were not deterred and will persist in carrying out their legitimate operations to support Filipino fishermen and ensure their safety.”
China issued a statement urging the Philippines to stop provocations in the South China Sea and not challenge Beijing’s determination to safeguard its sovereignty.
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Author: Faith N
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