International support is pouring in for the Philippines after its vessels became the latest targets of water cannon attacks by the China Coast Guard (CCG) in the West Philippine Sea, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said on Monday, Dec. 11.

Speaking in a Palace briefing, DFA spokesperson Assistant Secretary Ma. Teresita Daza noted that more than 14 countries have expressed their support for the Philippines against China’s alleged aggression and harassment in its territorial waters.

Among these countries include France, United States, Japan, Ireland, Australia, Canada, Denmark, European Union, Germany, the Netherlands, New Zealand and the United Kingdom.

The United States Department of State released a statement on Dec. 10 to condemn China, calling the recent attacks as a reflection of “not only reckless disregard for the safety and livelihoods of Filipinos, but also for international law.”

“The United States stands with our Philippine allies in the face of these dangerous and unlawful actions. We reaffirm that Article IV of the 1951 U.S.-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty extends to armed attacks on Philippine armed forces, public vessels, or aircraft – including those of its Coast Guard – anywhere in the South China Sea,” the statement read.

While the US and other countries signified support for the Philippines, they have also expressed concern about what is happening in its own territory.

“We’re very appreciative of the fact that many countries have actually expressed support for the Philippines. And, as of our latest count, that there been 14, or so,” Daza told the media.

She stressed that the international support to the Philippines resulted from the latest maritime actions being undertaken by China in the West Philippine Sea as it “caused damaged not only to vessels, but it can also be harmful to the ones manning the vessels.”

“But it does not contribute to peace and security in the region,” the spokesperson added.

The Philippine sea vessels were water cannoned by the CCG near Bajo de Masinloc off Zambales province last Dec. 9 and again, vessels in a resupply mission to Ayungin Shoal on Dec. 10.

Daza said that the Philippines used the so-called “maritime communication mechanism” at 12 noon on Sunday, Dec. 10, and filed a diplomatic protest with the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

She also said that the Philippine Embassy in Beijing has made a “demarche to the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs officials” over the Bajo de Masinloc incident.