The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Friday called out the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) for blocking the ships of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) during its seven-day maritime patrol in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
In a statement, DFA spokesperson Teresita Daza stressed that the PCG has the “legal right” to conduct maritime operations.
“The Chinese Coast Guard’s interference with this routine patrol mission was totally inconsistent with freedom of navigation,” she said, adding that China has several documented incidents of highly dangerous maneuvers, which are not a standard navigational practice.
Daza once again appealed to Beijing to show respect for the Philippines’ right over the WPS, in accordance with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
“And refrain from actions that may cause an untoward incident,” she added.
Last Sunday, April 23, in waters around Ayungin Shoal, CCG vessels towered over BRP Malapascua (MRRV-4403), maintaining 50 yards only while CCG vessel 4202 closely monitored the movements of BRP Malabrigo (MRRV-4402).
According to the Coast Guard, the incident posed a "serious danger" to the safety and security of the vessel and its crew.
The PCG also reported the presence of over 100 Chinese Maritime Militia (CMM) vessels and a Chinese navy corvette class in the WPS from April 18 to 24.
