Philippines Protests China’s South China Sea Water Cannon Incident

Philippines Protests China’s Use of Water Cannons on Vessels in South China Sea Amid Territorial Disputes

Date: 07/08/2023

MANILA (INTERNATION DESK): In a recent incident in the South China Sea, the Philippines has lodged a protest with China over the firing of water cannons at its vessels. The Philippines Foreign Secretary Enrique Manalo met with Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian to express the country’s strong objections.

The altercation occurred when China’s Coast Guard used water cannons against a Philippine vessel conducting a supply mission to Ayungin Shoal, a territory claimed by both countries, with China referring to it as Renai Reef. Photos of the incident were released by the Philippines Coast Guard, confirming Beijing’s involvement.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. emphasized the Philippines’ commitment to asserting its sovereignty and territorial rights in accordance with international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

Following the incident, President Marcos chaired a command conference with the Philippine armed forces to discuss the next steps. However, he also stressed the need for continued communication with the Chinese government, including President Xi Jinping, to find a resolution to the tensions.

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In response to the protest, the Chinese Coast Guard stated that they had issued multiple warnings to the Philippine vessels, which had allegedly violated the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea. They claim that the vessels were attempting to transport construction materials for an illegally grounded military vessel at the reef.

No injuries were reported, but President Marcos expressed concerns about insufficient supplies reaching the BRP Sierra Madre, a World War II-era ship deliberately grounded at the shoal to bolster the Philippines’ territorial claim.

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The Philippines’ move to summon Ambassador Huang reflects the seriousness of the situation and indicates the country’s commitment to safeguarding its interests and territorial integrity amid ongoing tensions in the South China Sea.

This incident further highlights the complex geopolitical situation in the region and underscores the importance of diplomatic efforts to address territorial disputes and uphold international law.

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