PH hits China’s aggression in WPS: ‘Adhere to international law’

Damage incurred by Philippine Coast Guard ship’s BRP Cape Engaño after the “aggressive maneuvers” of the China Coast Guard. PHOTO FROM THE PCG

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine government on Tuesday urged China to “refrain from aggressive actions and adhere to international law” following its recent actions in the West Philippine Sea.

National Maritime Council (NMC) spokesperson Alexander Lopez made the pronouncement after tagging China’s recent aggression against Philippine ships in the Escoda (Sabina) Shoal as “unprofessional and dangerous.”

He also condemned the aggression as a violation of international law, specifically the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the 1972 Convention on the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs).

READ: China’s latest WPS aggression may be due paranoia over Escoda reinforcement—PCG

“These illegal actions do not contribute to confidence building measures necessary for the improvement of relations on the basis of mutual respect and for a rules-based international order,” Lopez said in a Palace briefing.

“Hence, the Philippines urges China to refrain from aggressive actions and adhere to international law,” he added.

Despite what Lopez described as “deliberate harassment and infringement” of the Philippines’ sovereignty and jurisdiction, the NMC official emphasized that the Philippine government will continue to pursue a diplomatic approach to ensure a peaceful resolution of disputes in the West Philippine Sea.

READ: Despite ramming in Sabina, area not a new flashpoint in WPS tensions – Navy

“The government remains committed to the President’s directive for a diplomatic approach and the peaceful resolution of disputes,” he said.

Lopez also affirmed that the Philippines will continue to uphold its rights and jurisdiction in the West Philippine Sea, sustain its maritime activities, and protect its territory and maritime zones from environmental degradation and other illegal activities.

On Monday, August 19, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) conducted a routine logistics mission in the West Philippine Sea, during which Chinese Coast Guard vessels rammed two PCG ships near Escoda Shoal.