Manila: Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada on Friday denounced the China Coast Guard (CCG) for tailing and obstructing the BRP Teresa Magbanua near Bajo de Masinloc, saying the incident was a blatant show of aggression within the country's exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

According to Philippines News Agency, Estrada stated that the latest act of harassment against Philippine maritime personnel occurred on July 15 in waters firmly recognized under international law as part of the Philippines' EEZ. He criticized the CCG for attempting to twist the truth and claim that the BRP Teresa Magbanua was at fault during its maritime patrol.

Estrada highlighted that it has been nine years since the Permanent Court of Arbitration ruled in favor of the Philippines, invalidating China's expansive claims over the West Philippine Sea. Despite this decision, China continues to disregard it and has been consistently harassing Philippine maritime personnel, scientists, and fisherfolk.

He expressed his full support for the Philippine Coast Guard, urging an immediate cessation of the CCG's aggressive, dangerous, and bullying tactics. Estrada asserted that no intimidation or coercive behavior can erase the fact that the Philippines' sovereign rights are enshrined in international law, and no hostile action can invalidate what is rightfully theirs.