China Coast Guard Injures Filipino Fishermen in South China Sea Incident
According to the International Desk of Webangah News Agency, the Philippines has accused the Chinese coast guard of injuring three Filipino fishermen and causing significant damage to two of their boats after using high-pressure water cannons against them near the contested Sabina Shoal in the South China Sea.
The incident occurred within 200 kilometers of the Philippine Exclusive Economic Zone, according to officials.
Philippine Coast Guard spokesperson, Jay Tarriela, stated that Chinese ships interfered with Philippine vessels attempting to assist the injured fishermen, blocking their access initially. However, Philippine forces eventually reached the fishermen and provided first aid.
In response, Chinese Coast Guard spokesperson Liu Dejun asserted that their actions were necessary to “uphold territorial sovereignty” over Sabina Shoal, alleging that the Philippine vessels, disguised as fishing boats, had deliberately entered the area.
This latest confrontation follows a series of similar incidents between China and the Philippines in the South China Sea. Prior events in October and November included the use of water cannons, intentional ship collisions, and warnings directed at Philippine aircraft in disputed zones.
