MANILA, Philippines — The China Coast Guard (CCG) is asking the Philippines to stop what they call “intruding” into Huangyan Island, also known as Scarborough Shoal. They claim this area belongs to China.
On Wednesday, a spokesperson for the CCG, Liu Dejun, said, “We urge the Philippines to stop its actions right away. The Chinese Coast Guard will continue to protect our rights and enforce the law in waters that we say belong to China.” He emphasized that China will defend its territory and maritime rights.
Liu also mentioned that on October 8, two Philippine ships tried to enter the waters near Huangyan Island without permission from the Chinese government. He said that CCG ships monitored this situation closely and took legal actions.
“The operations were carried out properly and legally. China has strong rights over Huangyan Island and its surrounding waters,” Liu argued.
Earlier that day, CCG vessels disrupted a supply mission that was intended to support Filipino ships in Scarborough Shoal. However, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) reported that China’s attempts to stop them did not succeed.
BFAR explained that their vessels, BRP Datu Cabaylo and BRP Datu Sanday, were on a routine supply mission to the area when three CCG ships and one Chinese Navy ship started to approach and shadow them.
“Even though there were dangerous maneuvers and water cannons used against us, both BFAR ships successfully delivered supplies to Filipino fishermen near Scarborough Shoal,” BFAR said.
The agency also mentioned that they were able to resupply seven large Filipino fishing boats and 16 smaller ones near the shoal.
“BFAR is committed to patrolling all Philippine waters and helping Filipino fishermen in the West Philippine Sea,” they added.
