A Chinese coast guard ship uses water cannons on a Philippine resupply vessel Unaizah May 4 as it approaches Second Thomas Shoal, locally called Ayungin shoal, at the disputed South China Sea on Saturday, March 23, 2024. (Armed Forces of the Philippines via AP)
The Philippines has expressed its strongest condemnation towards China following a water cannon incident in the disputed South China Sea. After two Chinese coast guard ships reportedly attacked a Philippine navy-operated boat, injuring crew members and causing significant damage, the Philippines summoned a senior Chinese diplomat and warned against further aggressive actions.
China responded by cautioning the Philippines to tread carefully, claiming its actions were legitimate. The escalating tensions in the region have raised concerns about potential conflict between China and the United States, with the latter pledging to defend its ally, the Philippines, if necessary. Other countries, including the United States, the European Union, Japan, and Australia, have voiced support for the Philippines and the rule of law in the region. Meanwhile, the Philippines has reiterated its demand for Chinese ships to vacate the waters around Second Thomas Shoal, located within its exclusive economic zone.
Discussions are underway among Philippine defense and foreign affairs officials to address China's provocative actions in the South China Sea. The incident underscores the ongoing disputes over territorial claims in the strategic waterway, involving not only China and the Philippines but also Vietnam, Malaysia, Taiwan, and Brunei.
