China’s communist regime is facing international criticism after a Philippine fisheries vessel was damaged near a disputed South China Sea shoal. The incident occurred on August 25 when the Philippine vessel, operated by Manila’s Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, was on a resupply mission. According to the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea, the vessel had to prematurely end its mission due to engine failure caused by being rammed and shot with water cannons by Chinese Coast Guard ships.
The European Union’s ambassador to the Philippines, Luc Veron, described China’s naval maneuvers as “dangerous” and “disturbing.” He emphasized that respect for international law, including UNCLOS (U.N. Convention on the Law of the Sea), is crucial in the South China Sea.
In 2016, The Hague’s Permanent Court of Arbitration rejected Beijing’s claim to about 85 percent of the South China Sea based on its “nine-dash line.” The court ruled that these territorial claims were inconsistent with UNCLOS.
Australia, Japan, New Zealand, the United States, and UK have also expressed concerns over China’s actions in the region. Australia’s ambassador to the Philippines stated that they share concerns about dangerous and aggressive actions by China in Sabina Shoal. He emphasized that disputes must be resolved peacefully according to international law.
Japan’s ambassador called this latest incident an “unacceptable development” and stressed that any harassment or actions increasing tensions are not tolerated. He highlighted upholding a rules-based international order as essential.
This recent collision between vessels is not an isolated event; there was another collision near Sabina Shoal earlier this month which drew condemnation from around the world.
Philippine Defense Minister Gilberto Teodoro labeled China’s actions as “patently illegal” following this collision near Sabina Shoal. He acknowledged that such behavior should be expected from China but emphasized deterrence against armed attacks as a priority before considering treaty obligations between Washington and Manila under their mutual defense treaty.
Philippine House Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez condemned these reckless maneuvers by China Coast Guard on their vessels within their exclusive economic zone under UNCLOS jurisdiction. The National Maritime Council expressed concern over China’s commitment to de-escalation efforts in creating an environment for dialogue and urged Beijing to return to constructive dialogue regarding South China Sea matters.
It remains uncertain how this situation will develop further as tensions continue between these two nations in one of Asia’s most contentious regions.