AFP: PH won’t be deterred, intimidated by China’s ‘anti-trespassing’ policy

‘INHUMANE’ The National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea said Saturday’s water cannon attack by the China Coast Guard (CCG) caused “significant damage” to the Datu Bankaw (left). It condemned the CCG’s action as “not only illegal but also inhumane” for it was directed at a humanitarian mission. (Photo from a Philippine Coast Guard video)

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines will not be deterred or intimidated by China’s anti-trespassing policy in the South China Sea.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) had this to say on Friday — a day before China’s new rule is set to take effect.

“China’s so-called anti-trespassing policy undermines the rule of law and international norms that govern maritime conduct. The presence and actions of its vessels in our waters are illegal, coercive, aggressive, and deceptive. We will not be deterred or intimidated,” said AFP.

READ: ‘Barbaric’: 2 new reports of Chinese harassment

“The AFP remains steadfast in our mission to protect our nation’s rights and ensure the safety of our personnel and citizens in the West Philippine Sea. We will continue our maritime patrols in areas within the Philippines’ jurisdiction,” it added.

Under China’s new rule, its Coast Guard has the power to detain without trial foreigners “suspected of illegally crossing” what they consider their borders.

China earlier told the Philippines that there is no need to fret about the regulations as long as no “illicit” acts will be committed.

But the Philippine government, through the Department of Foreign Affairs, earlier axed China’s new rule, calling it “unacceptable” as it “has no legal basis.”

READ: China empowers self to detain South China Sea ‘trespassers’