Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, February 14) — China has accused the Philippines of intruding into its waters, claiming that the Ayungin Shoal in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) is part of China’s Nansha Islands.
The Chinese Foreign Minister released the statement Monday night after the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) reported that a Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) vessel directed a “military-grade laser light” at a PCG boat, temporarily blinding crew members and disrupting the resupply mission to the BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal.
According to Chinese Foreign Minister spokesperson Wang Wenbin, the PCG did not ask for permission to enter Chinese waters.
“On February 6, a Philippine Coast Guard vessel intruded into the waters off the Ren’ai Reef without Chinese permission. In accordance with China’ s domestic law and international law,” Wang said.
The PCG earlier reported that the CCG ship with bow No. 5205 reached around 18 kilometers (10 nautical miles) off Ayungin Shoal past 6 p.m. on Feb. 6.
“The Chinese ship crossed the bow of the PCG ship at a distance of 7.4 km (4 nautical miles), as if to warn BRP Malapascua to stop or alter course,” it added.
The PCG said it was followed by “dangerous maneuvers,” with CCG 5205 a close distance of about 150 yards from the starboard quarter of the Philippine vessel before the Chinese ship shone its laser.
Wang said the CCG only “upheld China’s sovereignty and maritime order,” calling the act “professional and restrained.”
“We hope the Philippine side will respect China’s territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in the South China Sea and avoid taking any actions that may exacerbate disputes and complicate the situation,” he added.
Commandant Admiral Artemio Abu said the PCG “condemns any actions that harm and jeopardize the safety of everyone regardless of nationality.”
China said they are in communication with the Philippines on the issue through diplomatic channels.
In 2016, an international tribunal in The Hague unanimously ruled in favor of the Philippines in its case against China. The five-member arbitral tribunal invalidated Beijing’s claims and recognized Manila’s sovereign rights in areas within its 200-nautical mile exclusive economic zone.
CNN Philippines correspondent Tristan Nodalo contributed to this report.
