It is noted that ships of the Philippine Bureau of Fisheries sailed to Scarborough Shoal to deliver humanitarian aid, mainly fuel and food, to poor fishermen.
Philippine officials said the swarm of Chinese coast guards and accompanying ships resorted to dangerous and aggressive actions. They used water cannons at least eight times as Philippine government ships approached Scarborough Shoal.
They added that the Chinese coast guard had set up a floating barrier at the entrance to the Scarborough Shoal fishing lagoon and stationed personnel aboard small motor boats to drive away Filipino fishermen awaiting humanitarian aid.
“Preventing the distribution of humanitarian aid is not only illegal, but also inhumane,” the Philippines said in an official statement.
US reaction
The United States warned China that Washington would defend The Philippines, if its troops, aircraft or ships will come under armed attack, particularly in the South China Sea.
IN In October, a Chinese coast guard ship collided with a Philippine resupply boat. Two hours later, a Chinese maritime police boat encountered a Philippine Coast Guard ship during the same supply operation in the South China Sea.
The Philippines then accused Beijing of invading its waters. And US President Joe Biden said the United States would be forced to intervene if China attacks Philippine ships.
On December 9, US Ambassador to the Philippines Mary Kay Carlson condemned China’s “aggressive and illegal actions.”
“This behavior violates international law and puts lives at risk. We stand with our Filipino friends, partners, and allies in supporting a free and open Indo-Pacific region,” she said.
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2023-12-10 01:41:36
