(Manila, 4 December 2024) — In the early morning of 4 December 2024, the vessels of the Philippine Coast Guard and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) were conducting routine maritime patrol in the vicinity of Bajo De Masinloc (BDM).

During the said activity, these vessels were subjected to water cannons, dangerous maneuvers, and harassment by the China Coast Guard (CCG) and People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN). On the same day, a BFAR vessel was sideswept and another was rammed by the CCG during a resupply mission near Escoda Shoal.

The Philippines reiterates that BDM is an integral part of the Philippine national territory and has indisputable sovereignty over it and its territorial sea. Additionally, the Philippines has sovereign rights and jurisdiction over the waters beyond the territorial sea of BDM, which form part of the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ) measured from its lawful archipelagic baselines. Escoda Shoal is likewise within the Philippine EEZ.

These maritime zones are in accordance with UNCLOS, the 2016 Arbitral Award, and the Philippine Maritime Zones Act (RA 12064). Hence, the Philippines is well within its rights to conduct routine maritime activities in the area, including maritime patrols and humanitarian activities that support the economic activities of Filipino fishers.

The National Maritime Council condemns the hostile actions against the country’s legitimate maritime operations within its maritime zones. The aggressive posture of the Chinese vessels highlights a continuing pattern of aggression, coercion and intimidation within Philippine waters. These actions against our vessels are clear violations of international law and an affront to the mutual respect that is expected between countries.

The Philippines will continue to protect its national interest and will remain steadfast in adhering to international law, particularly UNCLOS and the 2016 Arbitral Award. The Filipino spirit will not be deterred by any illegal, coercive, aggressive and deceptive actions perpetrated by any actors. It calls on China to exercise self-restraint and fully demonstrate its commitment to dialogue and consultation and the peaceful settlement of disputes between States. (END)