MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) responded to criticisms about their handling of the recent harassment by China in the West Philippine Sea, stating that they were focused on avoiding escalating tensions in the region.
Commodore Jay Tarriela of the West Philippine Sea Transparency Office of the PCG addressed the issue, emphasizing that they followed the guidance of the president to prevent provocation. Despite China Coast Guard firing cannons at Philippine vessels delivering supplies to Filipino fisherfolk at Bajo de Masinloc, the PCG chose not to retaliate.
The incident involved Chinese ships firing cannons and ramming through PCG vessel BRP Bagacay and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) vessel BRP Bankaw, causing over P2 million in damages. Tarriela noted that while Coast Guard personnel share the public’s emotions, they must maintain professionalism in dealing with Chinese aggression.
The attacks occurred despite the Permanent Court of Arbitration’s 2016 decision invalidating China’s expansive claims in the South China Sea. The Department of Foreign Affairs summoned a senior Chinese embassy official to address the issue.
Amid this tension, US President Joe Biden reiterated America’s commitment to defend the Philippines in the South China Sea, citing the Mutual Defense Treaty. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. expressed concerns over former President Rodrigo Duterte’s alleged secret agreement with China, highlighting the complexities of international relations in the region.
