The United States and Canada condemned the attacks by Chinese vessels on Filipino fishermen at Escoda Shoal on Friday, December 12.
According to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), three fishermen were injured and two fishing boats were damaged when Chinese vessels targeted around 20 Philippine boats with water cannons. The China Coast Guard also cut anchor lines of some boats using inflatable vessels.
“The United States condemns China’s water cannoning and cutting of anchor lines of Filipino fishers close to Sabina Shoal in the South China Sea,” said Thomas Pigott, principal deputy spokesperson of the US State Department.
“These aggressive actions endangered Filipinos fishing for their livelihoods. We stand with our Philippine allies as they confront China’s provocative actions and increasingly dangerous tactics against its neighbors, which undermine regional stability,” he added.
US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson also stated, “China Coast Guard’s aggressive tactics—water cannoning and cutting anchor lines—against Filipino fishers at Sabina Shoal threaten lives and livelihoods. We strongly condemn these illegal actions and applaud @coastguardph for aiding fishers and defending 🇵🇭 sovereign rights.”
Canadian Ambassador to the Philippines David Hartman expressed similar concerns.
“Canada is seriously concerned by the Chinese Coast Guard aggressive actions against Filipino civilian fishing vessels near Sabina Shoal. These actions jeopardize regional peace and stability. Disputes must be resolved peacefully and in accordance with international law,” he said.