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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider PH 'strongly condemns' CCG for firing water cannons at BFAR ships

PH 'strongly condemns' CCG for firing water cannons at BFAR ships

Published Jun 22, 2025 12:38 pm  |  Updated Jun 22, 2025 01:30 pm
The Philippines condemned on Sunday the China Coast Guard (CCG) for shadowing and hitting vessels of Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) with water cannons near Bajo de Masinloc. 
China Coast Guard hits BRP Datu Matanam Taradapit (MMOV 3006) with water cannon in Bajo de Masinloc on June 20, 2025. (Photo courtesy of PCG Spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Jay Tarriela)
China Coast Guard hits BRP Datu Matanam Taradapit (MMOV 3006) with water cannon in Bajo de Masinloc on June 20, 2025. (Photo courtesy of PCG Spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Jay Tarriela)
Through the National Maritime Council (NMC), the Philippines called on China to stop their unlawful actions to maintain regional peace and stability.
“The Philippine government strongly condemns the China Coast Guard's latest aggressive actions against Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources vessels conducting legitimate maritime patrols and fisheries support operations near Bajo de Masinloc (Panatag Shoal) in the West Philippine Sea,” the NMC said in a statement on June 22. 
“We call on China to cease unlawful actions, act with restraint, and adhere to international law to maintain regional peace and stability,” it stated.
According to the council, BRP Datu Matanam Taradapit (MMOV 3006) was hit with a water cannon by CCG vessel 4203 while delivering essential supplies to Filipino fisherfolk on Friday, June 20.
It was allegedly followed by shadowing and unsafe maneuvers by Chinese militia vessels and PLA Navy ships within the Philippines' Exclusive Economic Zone.
“Despite provocations, BFAR vessels remained professional and completed their mission,” the NMC said.
The Philippines stressed that the actions violate international law, specifically United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the 2016 Arbitral Ruling that favored the Philippines. 
It added that CCG's actions jeopardize the safety of Philippine personnel and local fishing communities.
 BFAR vessels' presence and operations in the area are lawful, routine, and focused on food security and public welfare, the NMC pointed out. 
The Philippines also reaffirmed its commitment to defending sovereignty and supporting Filipino fishermen.
Despite the latest incident, the NMC said the government will direct Philippine maritime forces to continue lawful operations with professionalism and determination.

Related Tags

BFAR China Coast Guard Bajo de Masinloc National Maritime Council
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