The US State Department on Monday called out the recnt aggression of China towards Filipino vessels in the West Philippine Sea, saying that it would come to the country's defense if it recorded armed attacks against the country's military forces, including its assets on land and air.

In a statement, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller stressed that the US stands with the Philippines amid the attacks which he called “dangerous and unlawful.”

"By impeding the safe operations of Philippine vessels carrying provisions to Filipino service members stationed at Second Thomas Shoal, the PRC interfered in lawful Philippine maritime operations and in Philippine vessels’ exercise of high seas freedom of navigation. Obstructing supply lines to this longstanding outpost and interfering with lawful Philippines maritime operations undermines regional stability," Miller said.

Over the weekend, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) accused China of firing water cannons and ramming its resupply vessel headed to BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal, causing "serious engine damage" to one vessel.

Following these actions, the supposed Christmas convoy led by a civilian group also did not push through as four Chinese ships shadowed their boats.

"By impeding the safe operations of Philippine vessels carrying provisions to Filipino service members stationed at Second Thomas Shoal, the PRC interfered in lawful Philippine maritime operations and in Philippine vessels' exercise of high seas freedom of navigation," the US said.

"Obstructing supply lines to this longstanding outpost and interfering with lawful Philippine maritime operations undermines regional stability," it added. "These actions reflect not only reckless disregard for the safety and livelihoods of Filipinos, but also for international law."

On Monday, the Philippines summoned Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian as it lodged another diplomatic protest against the said country.