Screengrab from PCG

The National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea expressed deep concern and condemnation over China's aggressive obstruction of a Philippine humanitarian mission aimed at assisting Filipino fishermen in their fishing grounds.

The incident, which involved harassment, blocking, water cannoning, and ramming of vessels belonging to the Philippine Coast Guard and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources by China Coast Guard and Chinese Maritime Militia vessels, highlights China's blatant disregard for the Philippines' lawful rights in its own Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). Despite sustaining damage to their vessels, the Philippine Coast Guard and BFAR personnel remain resolute in their commitment to supporting Filipino fishermen in the West Philippine Sea.

The Philippines reaffirms its commitment to peaceful and lawful actions in accordance with international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the 2016 Arbitral Award, and asserts its determination to continue legitimate activities in its maritime zones, including the vital fishing grounds of Panatag Shoal (Bajo de Masinloc).