IN BRIEF - 28 Chinese Fishing Vessels and Warships Surge Into Philippine Waters – Water Cannons Blast Local Fishing Vessels
PHILIPPINES
Friday, October 11, 2024
The Scarborough Shoal, a long-disputed maritime flashpoint in the South China Sea – where over 190 Chinese vessels, including 28 fishing vessels and PLAN warships have been spotted operating in Philippine waters – saw fresh turmoil on Tuesday when a Chinese Coast Guard cutter unleashed a water cannon barrage on a Philippine fisheries vessel. The dramatic confrontation, captured on video and broadcast by the state-run People’s Television Network, underscored the escalating friction between Manila and Beijing over the resource-rich shoal.
According to the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), the incident involved two Philippine fisheries vessels—BRP Datu Cabaylo (MMOV-3001) and BRP Datu Sanday (MMOV-3002)—which were in the area to resupply local fishermen. As the ships approached the contested waters, they were met by two Chinese fishing vessels and a warship from the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN). The footage shows China Coast Guard cutter 3301 unleashing torrents of water against the Datu Cabaylo, with Chinese vessels engaging in aggressive maneuvering to obstruct the Philippine boats. Despite the dangerous encounter, BFAR officials confirmed that the ships completed their mission.
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