CHINESE COAST GUARD VESSELS ‘HARASS’ BFAR SHIP AT ESCODA SHOAL

By Junex Doronio

MANILA – Despite ongoing efforts by the Philippines to de-escalate tensions in the West Philippine Sea, Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) vessels reportedly rammed and fired water cannons at a Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) ship on Sunday (25 Aug 2024) afternoon at Escoda Shoal, a contested area within the broader South China Sea.

This incident occurred despite an international ruling invalidating China’s claims based on its nine-dash line.

Initial reports indicated that the BFAR ship, BRP Datu Sanday, had sailed to Escoda Shoal to deliver fuel and supplies to fishermen operating near the area.

At least five CCG vessels began shadowing the BFAR ship as early as 10 a.m. on Sunday, August 25, 2024.

Reports suggest that some journalists were on board the BRP Datu Sanday when the ramming occurred. However, no immediate reports of damage or injuries have been confirmed.

Earlier on Sunday, prior to the incident, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining its presence in the West Philippine Sea.

Lt. Gen. Charlton Sean Gaerlan, AFP Deputy Chief of Staff, stated that the Philippines would continue to assert its rights amid China’s ongoing acts of aggression.

(ia/mnm)