MANILA – The United States has condemned China’s aggressive flight maneuver against a Philippine Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) aircraft patrolling over Bajo de Masinloc (Scarborough Shoal).
US Ambassador MaryKay Carlson, in a statement on X, criticized the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy helicopter’s actions, calling them a threat to safety.
“We condemn the dangerous maneuvers by a PLA Navy helicopter that endangered pilots and passengers on a Philippine air mission. We call on China to refrain from coercive actions and settle disputes peacefully in accordance with international law,” Carlson said.
Near-Collision Incident
A PLA Navy helicopter, identified by tail number 68, flew within three meters of the BFAR aircraft on Tuesday. The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), whose personnel were aboard the mission along with photojournalists, said the maneuver violated international aviation regulations set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
PH Government to File Diplomatic Protest
The National Maritime Council reaffirmed the Philippines’ sovereignty over Bajo de Masinloc and vowed to continue maritime operations despite China’s “illegal, coercive, and aggressive behavior.” The government is set to lodge a formal diplomatic protest over the incident.
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