United States (US) and United Kingdom (UK) respectively denounced the China Coast Guard’s (CCG) blocking and water-cannoning against the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) vessels near Ayungin shoal in the West Philippine Sea.
In a statement, the US Department of State pointed out that CCG’s action is “inconsistent with international law”, and that this “directly” threatens regional peace and stability.
“By impending necessary provision from reaching the Filipino service members stationed at Second Thomas Shoal, the PRC has also undertaken unwarranted interference in lawful Philippine maritime operations,” it said.
The US Department of State reiterated that the US could invoke its mutual defense commitments with the Philippines once there are armed attacks on its public vessels, aircraft, and armed forces, including the PCG.
BASAHIN: Narito ang pahayag ng US Embassy ukol sa insidente ng pambobomba ng tubig ng Chinese Coast Guard sa supply boat ng Philippine Coast Guard sa Ayungin Shoal kahapon, August 5. | DZRH News pic.twitter.com/ZCbItPAAQm
— DZRH NEWS (@dzrhnews) August 6, 2023
Meanwhile, in a separate statement, the British Embassy said that it is concerned by the recent incident in the WPS.
Similar to the US Department of State, it said that CCG’s recent moves “poses serious risks to regional peace and stability.”
“Britain stands steadfast in its commitment to international law, in particular, UNCLOS, in the South China Sea,” the British Embassy said.
The UK is concerned by reports of unsafe conduct towards 🇵🇭vessels in a recent incident in the South China Sea. Such action poses serious risks to regional peace & stability. 🇬🇧 stands steadfast in its commitment to international law, in particular UNCLOS, in the South China Sea.
— British Embassy Manila 🇬🇧🇵🇭 (@ukinphilippines) August 6, 2023
Aside from the two embassies, Japan Ambassador to the Philippines Kazuhiko Koshikawa also issued a statement regarding the incident.
“Totally unacceptable any harassment [and] action which infringe on lawful activity of the sea and endanger the navigational safety,” he said.
Koshikawa also joined in urging China to uphold the UNCLOS and 2016 Arbitral Award.
Totally unacceptable any harassment & actions which infringe on lawful activities of the sea and endanger the navigational safety. We strongly support PH’s position; upholding maritime order based on UNCLOS & 2016 Arbitral Award. https://t.co/jQXeXwIZBm
— Ambassador of Japan in the Philippines (@AmbJPNinPH) August 6, 2023
