The Philippine government summoned China’s ambassador on Monday to register a diplomatic protest over the use of water cannons by the Chinese coast guard in a confrontation with Philippine vessels in the disputed South China Sea. The incident took place near Second Thomas Shoal, which is claimed by both countries. This incident is the latest in a series of territorial conflicts involving China, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Taiwan, and Brunei in the South China Sea.
International support for the Philippines and concern over China’s actions has been expressed by the United States, the European Union, Australia, and Japan. The United States has reiterated its commitment to defending its treaty ally in the event of an armed attack, including in the South China Sea.
Philippine officials held a news conference where they presented evidence, including videos and photographs, of the incident. The footage showed Chinese coast guard ships and militia vessels blocking Philippine civilian boats carrying supplies to Second Thomas Shoal. The boats were targeted with water cannons by the Chinese coast guard. Only one of the two Philippine boats managed to deliver the necessary supplies to the Philippine forces stationed at the shoal.
During the confrontation, Philippine coast guard ships were also blocked by Chinese coast guard ships and threatened with water cannons. Chinese navy ships were also present at the scene. This situation has been described as a “David and Goliath” scenario by Jonathan Malaya of the National Security Council.
The Philippine government has summoned China’s ambassador and issued a strong diplomatic protest, demanding that China cease its illegal actions in the South China Sea, stop interfering in legitimate Philippine activities, and adhere to international laws, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
The disputes in the South China Sea have long been seen as a potential flashpoint in the rivalry between the United States and China. China claims almost the entire region, despite the 2016 ruling by an arbitration tribunal invalidating its claims. The United States has criticized China’s aggressive actions and has conducted patrols and military exercises with regional allies to ensure freedom of navigation and overflight.
China has accused the United States of “threatening China” by invoking the possibility of activating the U.S.-Philippines mutual defense treaty. It has called for the U.S. to stop interfering in what it considers to be an Asian dispute.
It is important to note that the situation in the South China Sea has significant implications for regional peace and stability, given its status as one of the world’s busiest sea lanes. The international community will continue to closely monitor developments in this contentious issue.
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