Photo credit: PCG

The United States has strongly condemned China’s recent actions against Filipino fishers in the South China Sea, calling them dangerous and destabilizing to the region.

In a press statement issued on December 14, 2025, Thomas “Tommy” Pigott, Principal Deputy Spokesperson of the U.S. Department of State, criticized China’s reported water cannoning and cutting of anchor lines belonging to Filipino fishing boats near Sabina Shoal. The incident, according to the U.S., placed the safety and livelihoods of Filipino fishers at risk.

“The United States condemns China’s water cannoning and cutting of anchor lines of Filipino fishers close to Sabina Shoal in the South China Sea. These aggressive actions endangered Filipinos fishing for their livelihoods. We stand with our Philippine allies as they confront China’s provocative actions and increasingly dangerous tactics against its neighbors, which undermine regional stability.”

Pigott reaffirmed Washington’s support for the Philippines amid rising tensions in disputed waters, emphasizing the importance of protecting maritime rights and regional peace.

Pigott, who joined the Department of State in January 2025 under the Trump-Vance administration, brings nearly a decade of communications experience to his role. Before entering government service, he served as Strategic Communications Director at the Republican National Committee. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service and a master’s degree from George Washington University’s School of Media & Public Affairs.

The statement adds to growing international concern over maritime incidents in the South China Sea, where confrontations have increasingly drawn reactions from global powers and regional allies alike.