Philippines says Chinese ship collision shows risks of ignoring maritime rules

The Philippine government is calling on China to learn from a recent maritime incident involving two Chinese vessels that collided while harassing a Philippine patrol boat near Scarborough Shoal. The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) expressed serious concerns over the dangerous maneuvers of Chinese ships, emphasizing the need for adherence to international maritime regulations. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing tensions in the region and the importance of maritime safety.

Urgent Call for Compliance with Maritime Regulations

In a statement released on August 12, the DFA highlighted the serious implications of the collision, which occurred as a China Coast Guard (CCG) vessel attempted to maneuver dangerously close to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) vessel BRP Suluan. The collision resulted in significant damage to the CCG vessel, rendering it unseaworthy. The DFA underscored that such reckless actions not only endangered Philippine personnel but also violated established maritime protocols.

The DFA reiterated the necessity of following international maritime laws, specifically the 1972 International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGS) and the 1974 Safety of Life at Sea Convention (SOLAS). These regulations are designed to ensure safe navigation and prevent maritime accidents. The Philippines has previously raised concerns about China’s disregard for these rules during various encounters in the West Philippine Sea, where Chinese vessels have engaged in hazardous maneuvers.

The Philippine Coast Guard captured the incident on video, showcasing the moment of collision. The DFA’s statement emphasized the importance of learning from this event to enhance maritime safety and cooperation among nations. The Philippines remains committed to asserting its sovereignty and rights in its maritime zones while advocating for diplomatic solutions to ongoing disputes.

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Humanitarian Response Amidst Tensions

Despite the confrontation, the DFA extended an offer of medical aid and towing assistance to the damaged CCG vessel, reflecting the Philippines’ commitment to maritime safety and humanitarian principles. The department praised the professionalism of the PCG, which was on a humanitarian mission delivering supplies to Filipino fishermen when the incident occurred.

PCG spokesperson Jay Tarriela reported that the Chinese vessels engaged in hazardous maneuvers, obstructing the delivery of essential provisions to around 35 Filipino fishing boats. An assessment by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) indicated that there was a deliberate attempt to ram the Philippine vessel, further escalating tensions in the area.

Scarborough Shoal, located within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone, has been under Chinese control since 2012, despite a 2016 arbitral ruling that invalidated China’s expansive claims in the South China Sea. The presence of a Chinese Navy vessel during the incident raises concerns about China’s compliance with a 2012 agreement to withdraw naval ships from the shoal. The Philippines continues to assert its rights and seek peaceful resolutions to maritime disputes, emphasizing the need for respect and adherence to international law.