MANILA: Tensions between the Philippines and China escalated on Sunday as the Philippines condemned China’s Coast Guard for using water cannon against its vessels in the disputed South China Sea. The incident, described as “illegal” and “dangerous,” occurred as Philippine Coast Guard boats were escorting supplies for military personnel stationed at Second Thomas Shoal in the Spratly Islands.
China claims a vast portion of the South China Sea, despite an international court ruling in 2016 that its claims lack legal basis. The sea serves as a vital route for trillions of dollars in global trade, leading to frequent disputes over territory and maritime rights.
The recent clash involved the Chinese Coast Guard and “maritime militia” confronting the Philippine Coast Guard vessels on their resupply mission to Second Thomas Shoal. The Philippine Coast Guard strongly condemned the “dangerous manoeuvres” of the Chinese forces, which violated international law and posed a direct threat to regional peace and stability.
The US State Department also denounced China’s actions, emphasizing the involvement of both the coast guard and maritime militia in escalating tensions in the contested waters.
Maritime Disputes Between China and Philippine
The location of Second Thomas Shoal, about 200 kilometers from the Philippine island of Palawan and over 1,000 kilometers from China’s nearest major landmass of Hainan island, has been a focal point of maritime disputes between the two nations. China’s coast guard and navy vessels have routinely blocked or shadowed Philippine ships patrolling the region, heightening tensions and leading to incidents like the recent water cannon attack.
The Philippines maintains its sovereign rights over Second Thomas Shoal, situated within its exclusive economic zone. President Ferdinand Marcos has reaffirmed the country’s commitment to protecting its rights in the South China Sea, signaling a shift in the Philippines’ approach towards China under his leadership.
The international community also expressed concern over the escalating situation. The British, Australian, and Canadian embassies joined in condemning China’s actions, urging prudence and responsible behavior to prevent further miscalculations and potential accidents.
