Philippines Condemns China's Water Cannon Attack on Supply Vessels in Zambales - Sea Law Violation Escalates
MANILA, Philippines – Tensions in the South China Sea flared again this weekend as the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) strongly condemned the Chinese Coast Guard for using water cannons against two Philippine supply vessels en route to the BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal (Second Thomas Shoal) near Zambales. This incident marks another apparent violation of international maritime law and has drawn sharp criticism from Manila.
According to the PCG, the incident occurred on Saturday while the Philippine vessels were attempting to deliver essential provisions and personnel to the BRP Sierra Madre, a Philippine Navy ship that has been grounded on Ayungin Shoal since 1999. The Chinese Coast Guard reportedly deployed water cannons, obstructing the vessels' progress and endangering the safety of the Filipino crew.
The PCG swiftly issued a statement rebuking the actions of the Chinese Coast Guard, accusing them of “dangerous and irresponsible maneuvers” and a blatant disregard for the rules of engagement at sea. The statement emphasized that the resupply mission was conducted within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and that the actions of the Chinese vessels were a clear provocation.
China's response, as reported by the PCG, attempted to justify the action by claiming the Philippines had violated China’s “so-called sovereignty” in the South China Sea. The PCG rejected this claim outright, asserting that the Philippines has the sovereign right to conduct activities within its own EEZ, as affirmed by international law and the 2016 Arbitral Tribunal ruling in the Philippines v. China case.
The incident has sparked renewed calls for stronger diplomatic action and increased regional cooperation to address China’s increasingly assertive behavior in the South China Sea. Analysts have noted that the use of water cannons represents an escalation of tactics, moving beyond verbal warnings and harassment. The Philippine government has vowed to continue its resupply missions to the BRP Sierra Madre and to firmly defend its sovereign rights in the region.
The Philippines has consistently maintained its position that the 2016 Arbitral Tribunal ruling, which invalidated China’s expansive claims in the South China Sea, is legally binding and must be respected. This latest incident underscores the ongoing challenges in upholding international law and ensuring freedom of navigation in one of the world’s most contested waterways. The international community is watching closely as the situation unfolds, with concerns growing over the potential for further escalation.
The Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs is expected to lodge a formal protest with the Chinese government over the incident. The government is also exploring options for seeking international support and raising awareness of China’s actions in the South China Sea.