By Joyce Ann Rocamora | Philippine News Agency
The Australian Embassy in Manila on Wednesday expressed “serious concern” over the collision of two Chinese vessels near Bajo de Masinloc, saying the incident underscores the urgent need for “restraint” in the area.
“Australia is seriously concerned by the dangerous and unprofessional conduct of Chinese vessels near Scarborough Shoal involving the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG),” the embassy said in a statement posted on X.
“This incident highlights the need for de-escalation, restraint, and respect for international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS),” it added.
Australia joined several foreign missions in raising an alarm over the incident.
The Canadian Embassy in Manila said it was gravely concerned over the incident and called for peaceful resolution of disputes. Meanwhile, it commended the crew of the PCG for offering assistance to the wrecked CCG cutter.
“We commend the PCG for offering to help a Chinese vessel and continue to call for the peaceful resolution of disputes, in accordance with UNCLOS and the 2016 Arbitral Award,” it said.
Also, the New Zealand Embassy in Manila called for a peaceful resolution of maritime disputes.
“New Zealand is concerned by the collision between vessels near Scarborough Shoal, and the pattern of dangerous and destabilising actions in the South China Sea. We do not want to see ship and crew safety undermined. We call for peaceful resolution of maritime disputes in accordance with UNCLOS,” it said.
The Embassies of the United States, Japan, and United Kingdom earlier echoed the same concerns over X.
United States Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson condemned the Chinese actions, describing them as “reckless” and directed against the PCG vessel.
The latest incident took place off the Bajo de Masinloc on Monday morning, while the Chinese Coast Guard ship 3104 was chasing BRP Suluan at high speed.
Visibly suffering from significant damage after colliding with People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) ship 164, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) immediately offered assistance, including medical aid and the towing of the damaged ship out of the area. (PNA)
