Vessels of the China Coast Guard (CCG) and Chinese Maritime Militia (CMM) again “recklessly harassed, blocked, executed dangerous maneuvers” against Philippine resupply vessels, but failed to prevent the resupply mission.
The actions of the CCG and CMM were part of another attempt to “illegally impede or obstruct a routine resupply and rotation mission” to BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal.
In a statement, the National Security Council (NSC) said CCG vessel 5203 deployed a water cannon against Philippine supply vessel M/L Kalayaan to alter its course, but failed.
CCG rigid-hulled inflatable boats also subjected supply boats Unaizah Mae 1 and M/L Kalayaan “to extremely reckless and dangerous harassment at close proximity” inside Ayungin Shoal lagoon during their approach to BRP Sierra Madre.
The NSC said the supply boats still made their way to successfully reach the BRP Sierra Madre.
The Department of Foreign Affairs filed a diplomatic protest against China and reached out to them through the Maritime Communications Mechanism, while the Embassy of the Philippines in Beijing also expressed this to the Chinese Foreign Ministry.
“We condemn, once again, China’s latest unprovoked acts of coercion and dangerous maneuvers against a legitimate and routine Philippine rotation and resupply mission to Ayungin Shoal, that has put the lives of our people at risk,” the NSC said.
“The systematic and consistent manner in which the People’s Republic of China carries out these illegal and irresponsible actions puts into question and significant doubt the sincerity of its calls for peaceful dialogue,” it added.
The NCS continued that “peace and stability cannot be achieved without due regard for the legitimate, well-established, and legally settled rights of others.”
It added that the country will not be deterred from exercising legal rights over its maritime zones, including Ayungin Shoal which forms part of the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone and continental shelf.
“We demand that China demonstrate that it is a responsible and trustworthy member of the international community.”
Meanwhile, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. commended the courage, commitment, and dedication to duty of the navy and coast guard personnel who risk their lives for the nation. – With reports from Bea Bernardo-ag