MANILA, Philippines — An increasing number of countries have voiced concern over the China Coast Guard’s (CCG) recent use of water cannons against Philippine vessels near Bajo de Masinloc (Scarborough Shoal), reinforcing global support for the Philippines’ sovereign rights within its exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
On Tuesday, Australia, New Zealand, and South Korea joined earlier statements from the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and the European Union in condemning the CCG’s aggressive actions, which targeted ships deployed by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) to assist Filipino fisherfolk off Zambales.
Australian Ambassador to the Philippines HK Yu reiterated that the 2016 Arbitral Award, which invalidated China’s sweeping claims over the West Philippine Sea, remains legally binding and must guide the peaceful resolution of disputes.
“Australia shares the Philippines’ concerns at China Coast Guard’s use of water cannons against Philippine vessels near Scarborough Shoal,” she posted on X. “The Arbitral Award is binding on the parties, and disputes must be resolved peacefully consistent with international law, especially UNCLOS,” she added, referring to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
Echoing this call, the New Zealand Embassy in Manila condemned the “dangerous manoeuvres and the use of water cannons” against BFAR vessels, stressing that such actions put lives at risk and undermine maritime peace.
“We call for the peaceful resolution of maritime disputes in accordance with UNCLOS,” the post said.
Meanwhile, the South Korean Embassy expressed concern over the same incident, reaffirming its support for peace, safety, and freedom of navigation in the West Philippine Sea. “The recent use of water cannons and dangerous maneuvers… is deeply concerning,” the embassy said.
According to Philippine officials, two of BFAR’s vessels—BRP Datu Tamblot and BRP Datu Taradapit—were harassed by CCG vessels 4203 and 3105 on Friday, while they were delivering fuel and supplies to Filipino fishers near Scarborough Shoal.
The attacks occurred 15.6 and 18.1 nautical miles from the shoal, well within the Philippines’ EEZ under international law.
The latest aggression highlights ongoing tensions in the West Philippine Sea and underscores growing international scrutiny of China’s maritime actions.
The Philippine government has condemned the incident and vowed to assert its sovereign rights and support its fisherfolk.