DFA: PH ‘seriously concerned’ over Chinese ships’ dangerous maneuvers

China Coast Guard-3104 sustains damage to its forecastle after being rammed by the Chinese navy in Panatag Shoal on Monday. — Photo from PTV reporter Patrick De Jesus via John Eric Mendoza, INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine government on Tuesday said it is “seriously concerned” by the dangerous maneuvers of two vessels of the People’s Liberation Army Navy and the China Coast Guard and their unlawful interference with a routine humanitarian operation for Filipino fisherfolk in and around the territorial sea of Bajo de Masinloc.

The country’s position was aired by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) in a statement, noting that Bajo de Masinloc is a longstanding and integral part of the Philippine territory.

“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,” said the DFA.

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The agency maintained that pursuant to its obligations to render assistance in times of distress at sea and its mandate under its jurisdiction, the Philippines 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.

“Yesterday’s incident demonstrates the importance of adhering to international maritime rules such as the 1972 International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea and the 1974 Safety of Life at Sea Convention. The Philippines has repeatedly emphasized the importance of maritime safety, and is prepared to work with relevant parties to draw lessons from this incident,” said the DFA.

It then added that the Philippine government remains committed to “utilizing diplomacy and dialogue to address differences to manage the situation in the West Philippine Sea constructively and settle disputes peacefully.”

“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,” it added.

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Philippine Coast Guard vessels BRP Teresa Magbanua and BRP Suluan, together with government-owned fish carrier MV Pamamalakaya, encountered “hazardous” maneuvers and blocking actions by the China Coast Guard and the People’s Liberation Army-Navy about 19.4 kilometers east of Bajo de Masinloc on Monday.

“In particular, the MRRV 2206 (BRP Suluan) was targeted with a water cannon, but the seamanship skills of PCG crew members allowed the vessel to successfully evade getting hit,” said Commodore Jay Tarriela, PCG spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea. /das