MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) called out China for what it called “unlawful interference” with the Philippines’ routine humanitarian operation in the West Philippine Sea, and said that the “dangerous maneuvers” of two of its vessels posed a grave danger to Philippine personnel and vessels.
“The Department is seriously concerned by the dangerous maneuvers of two vessels of the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) and the China Coast Guard (CCG), and their unlawful interference with a routine humanitarian operation for Filipino fisherfolk in and around the territorial sea of Bajo de Masinloc, which is a longstanding and integral part of Philippine territory,” according to a statement from the DFA.
“Their actions not only posed a grave danger to Philippine personnel and vessels, but also resulted in the unfortunate collision between the two Chinese vessels,” the statement added.
The Department also reiterated the importance of adhering to international maritime rules, such as the 1972 International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGS) and the 1974 Safety of Life at Sea Convention (SOLAS).
With this, the DFA emphasized that it is still willing to work with relevant parties “to draw lessons” from the incident.
“The Philippines remains keen in utilizing diplomacy and dialogue to address differences and produce positive outcomes, in line with the President’s instruction to manage the situation in the West Philippine Sea constructively and settle disputes peacefully,” the DFA stated.
The incident took place near Bajo de Masinloc, while the CCG vessel was chasing BRP Suluan.
After the collision, the Philippines rendered assistance in times of distress at sea, and offered medical aid and other relevant support to the Chinese side, including towing the damaged China Coast Guard vessel out of the area to ensure the safety of navigation for other vessels.
The Department also commended the “calm professionalism” and “world-class seamanship” of the men and women of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), which remained steadfast in enforcing the country’s rights and entitlements in all its maritime zones.
“As we continue to maintain our presence in the West Philippine Sea, the Philippines will unstintingly assert and protect its sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction in accordance with international law,” the DFA said.
