TENSIONS have resurfaced in Bajo de Masinloc (also known as Scarborough or Panatag Shoal) following alarming incidents involving Chinese vessels.
On December 4, Philippine vessels patrolling the West Philippine Sea (WPS) were targeted by Chinese ships using water cannons and intentional ramming maneuvers.
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) were on routine maritime patrols to support Filipino fishermen when they faced aggressive actions from the China Coast Guard (CCG) and People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy.
According to Commodore Jay Tarriela, spokesperson for the PCG on West Philippine Sea matters, three CCG ships (bow numbers 5303, 3302, and 3104) and PLA Navy vessels (bow numbers 500 and 571) engaged in hostile activities against the PCG and BFAR vessels around 6:30 a.m.
Notably, CCG 3302 fired a water cannon at the BRP Datu Pagbuaya (MMOV 3003), targeting its navigational antennas 16 nautical miles south of Bajo de Masinloc. The same vessel subsequently sideswiped BRP Datu Pagbuaya on its starboard side and launched a second water cannon attack shortly thereafter. Additionally, BRP Teresa Magbanua and BRP Cabra faced blocking, shadowing, and dangerous maneuvers from PLA and CCG ships.
While the PCG has not disclosed any damage to its vessels, these incidents underscore the escalating aggression in the region. Despite being equipped with water cannons, PCG vessels, as stated by Coast Guard Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan, are instructed to use them solely for life-saving purposes, not for confrontation.
China recently submitted a chart to the United Nations (UN) depicting its claimed territorial waters around Bajo de Masinloc. The shoal lies within the Philippines’ 200-nautical mile exclusive economic zone (EEZ), giving Filipinos sovereign rights to explore and exploit its resources. However, China’s territorial claims persist despite being debunked by a 2016 arbitral ruling.
Commodore Tarriela reaffirmed the PCG’s dedication to safeguarding Filipino fishermen’s rights and ensuring the nation’s maritime interests are protected in the West Philippine Sea.
The protection of sovereign rights and adherence to international law must be maintained to prevent further escalation and ensure the safety and security of all affected parties. Achieving this requires a firm, united stance by the Philippine government and international allies to address provocations and maintain peace and stability in the region.
Equally important, the Philippine government must continue to raise public awareness about the importance of the South China Sea and the implications of ongoing disputes. It should continue to broadcast globally the instances of bullying committed by China, emphasizing the need for international solidarity. Additionally, educating its citizens on the significance of protecting sovereign rights and the benefits of peaceful resolution is crucial for fostering a well-informed and resilient populace.
A united effort on both the domestic and international fronts is essential to uphold the principles of sovereignty and international law, ensuring long-term peace and stability in the region. (totingbunye2000@gmail.com)/PN
