Manila: More foreign missions in the Philippines have expressed concern over the recent actions of the China Coast Guard (CCG), which used water cannons on Filipino vessels near Zambales, just outside the territorial waters of Bajo de Masinloc.

According to Philippines News Agency, Australian Ambassador HK Yu reiterated that the 2016 Arbitral Ruling is binding on all involved parties and emphasized the need for peaceful resolution of disputes in the South China Sea. She stated that Australia shares the Philippines' concerns regarding the CCG's actions against Philippine vessels near Scarborough Shoal and called for adherence to international law, specifically the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

The New Zealand Embassy in Manila echoed these sentiments, expressing concern over the dangerous maneuvers and use of water cannons against the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) vessels in the South China Sea. The embassy urged all parties to resolve disputes peacefully in accordance with UNCLOS, emphasizing the importance of safety.

Similarly, the South Korean Embassy in Manila reaffirmed its commitment to peace, stability, and safety in the South China Sea. The embassy voiced concern about the recent incidents involving water cannons and dangerous maneuvers against Philippine vessels around the Scarborough Shoal.

In addition, the United States, European Union, United Kingdom, and Canada have issued separate statements urging respect for international law. The BFAR had deployed four ships to provide fuel and goods to Filipinos fishing near the Bajo de Masinloc or Scarborough Shoal. Two of these vessels, BRP Datu Tamblot and BRP Datu Taradapit, were targeted by CCG vessels 4203 and 3105, positioned 15.6 and 18.1 nautical miles off the feature, respectively, well within the Philippine exclusive economic zone.