MANILA. The Philippines issued its “strongest protest” against China on Monday, summoning a senior Chinese diplomat following a water cannon assault by the Chinese coast guard that left Filipino navy crew members injured and their boat heavily damaged in the disputed South China Sea.
In response to the protest, China cautioned that relations were at a critical juncture, urging the Philippines to tread carefully.
The incident occurred near the contested Second Thomas Shoal, where Chinese vessels encircle the area in an attempt to dislodge Philippine forces. Two Chinese coast guard ships reportedly targeted a Philippine navy-operated supply boat with water cannons, marking the latest and most serious clash between the two nations in the disputed region.
Tensions in the South China Sea have escalated over the past year, raising concerns of a potential conflict between China and the United States. The U.S. has reiterated its commitment to defend the Philippines, its oldest treaty ally in Asia, in the event of an armed attack in the area.
China defended its actions, accusing Philippine vessels of trespassing into Chinese waters. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian characterized the Chinese coast guard’s response as “legitimate, professional, and restrained,” reaffirming China’s resolve to safeguard its territorial sovereignty.
Amidst the escalating diplomatic row, Philippine Foreign Undersecretary Theresa Lazaro conveyed the nation’s strong protest against China’s aggressive actions during a phone call with her Chinese counterpart. In response, Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Chen Xiaodong urged the Philippines to exercise prudence in its decisions, accusing Manila of provoking incidents at Second Thomas Shoal.
Second Thomas Shoal, occupied by Philippine forces since 1999, has become a flashpoint in the territorial dispute. The recent clash marks the second time this month that a Philippine supply boat has been damaged by water cannons.
As tensions continue to simmer, Philippine defense and foreign affairs officials convened to discuss potential measures to address China’s provocative actions in the South China Sea. Recommendations from the meeting will be presented to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for consideration.
The South China Sea, a vital global trade route, is contested by multiple nations, including Vietnam, Malaysia, Taiwan, and Brunei. Despite a 2016 international arbitration ruling invalidating China’s expansive claims, Beijing has refused to recognize the decision, fueling ongoing tensions in the region.
Si Venus L Peñaflor ay naging editor-in-chief ng Newsworld, isang lokal na pahayagan ng Laguna. Publisher din siya ng Daystar Gazette at Tutubi News Magazine. Siya ay isa ring pintor at doll face designer ng Ninay Dolls, ang unang Manikang Pilipino. Kasali siya sa DesignCrowd sa rank na #305 sa 640,000 graphic designers sa buong daigdig. Kasama din siya sa unang Local TV Broadcast sa Laguna na Beyond Manila. Aktibong kasapi siya ng San Pablo Jaycees Senate bilang isang JCI Senator.
