Manila: The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) strongly condemned the actions of a Chinese Coast Guard vessel that resulted in a minor collision causing damage to the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) vessel, BRP Datu Magat Salamat. The incident has drawn significant attention due to the aggressive maneuvers by the Chinese vessel.

According to Philippines News Agency, the DFA issued a statement asserting that there was no justification for the Chinese Coast Guard's hostile actions against the Philippine civilian law enforcement vessel. The collision not only damaged the vessel but also endangered the safety of its civilian crew, sparking concerns over maritime safety and international law compliance.

The DFA emphasized that the BRP Datu Magat Salamat was engaged in routine and lawful humanitarian activities aimed at supporting Filipino fisherfolk in the West Philippine Sea. The department highlighted that the Chinese vessel's actions were illegal, coercive, and inconsistent with China's international obligations, referencing the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), the 2016 Arbitral Award, the 1972 International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGS), and the 1974 Safety of Life at Sea Convention (SOLAS).

The Philippine government called on China to respect its sovereign rights within its exclusive economic zone as affirmed by the 2016 Arbitral Award. The DFA urged China to exercise restraint and avoid actions that could escalate regional tensions. The collision took place approximately 54 nautical miles from Palawan, within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone, further intensifying the call for adherence to maritime laws.

The BRP Datu Magat Salamat, which previously ran aground at Hasa-Hasa Shoal while approaching Filipino fishing boats in September, continues to face challenges in its mission to support local fisherfolk under increasing geopolitical pressures in the region.