ABOARD THE BRP CABRA. In a renewed episode of high-stakes brinkmanship, dozens of Chinese coast guard and accompanying ships engaged in aggressive maneuvers against Philippine vessels in the contested South China Sea, prompting a stern warning from the United States about defending its treaty ally.
Amidst the confrontation, a U.S. Navy surveillance plane monitored the situation closely as Chinese ships encircled and pursued Philippine vessels, escalating tensions near Second Thomas Shoal. During the four-hour standoff, a Chinese coast guard ship reportedly deployed a water cannon against a Philippine motorboat delivering supplies to Filipino forces stationed on a decrepit warship.
China’s persistent claims over the strategically vital waterway have sparked clashes with neighboring nations, drawing the United States into the fray as Manila’s primary ally and China’s regional rival. In response, the U.S. and its allies have deployed naval assets to assert freedom of navigation, deter aggression, and reassure allies like the Philippines.
Concerns loom over the potential for armed conflict at Second Thomas Shoal, situated within the U.N.-sanctioned Philippine exclusive economic zone but contested by China. Despite Philippine assurances that they seek to avoid a larger conflict, tensions remain high.
In the face of Chinese blockades, the Philippine contingent successfully delivered supplies to the aging BRP Sierra Madre, a warship donated by the U.S. Although the vessel is deteriorating, any armed attack on it would be considered an act of war by Manila.
Journalists aboard Philippine coast guard ships documented the perilous confrontations, showcasing what officials term a “shame campaign” to expose China’s growing aggression in a key global trade route.
Philippine coast guard Commodore Tarriela affirmed their commitment to the rule of law and stated that they wouldn’t be provoked by China’s tactics. The U.S. reiterated its support for its ally and warned of its obligation to defend the Philippines under the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty.
Despite international calls to adhere to the 2016 arbitration decision invalidating China’s expansive claims, Beijing continues to defy it. China’s coast guard justified its actions, urging the Philippines to cease provocations.
Efforts to negotiate a nonaggression pact between China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) face headwinds, with skirmishes at Second Thomas Shoal persisting. The Philippines remains steadfast in its commitment to defend the shoal, setting the stage for continued tensions in the South China Sea.
AP contributed to this report.
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.
