Sabina shoal: The United States and Canada have condemned China's use of water cannons and the cutting of anchor lines of Filipino fishers near Sabina Shoal in the West Philippine Sea, stating that these actions endangered civilians who were fishing for their livelihoods.

According to Philippines News Agency, US Department of State Principal Deputy Spokesperson Thomas Pigott, in a statement on Monday, expressed that the US stands with the Philippines as they confront China's provocative actions and increasingly dangerous tactics against its neighbors, which undermine regional stability. "These aggressive actions endangered Filipinos fishing for their livelihoods," he added.

Canadian Ambassador to the Philippines David Hartman also voiced concerns, stating that Canada is "seriously concerned by the Chinese Coast Guard's (CCG) aggressive actions against Filipino civilian fishing vessels near Sabina Shoal." He emphasized that "these actions jeopardize regional peace and stability," and stressed that disputes must be resolved peacefully and in accordance with international law through his post on his X account.

Sabina Shoal, located within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone in the West Philippine Sea, has been the site of repeated incidents involving Chinese vessels and Philippine maritime activities. The Philippine Coast Guard reported that approximately 20 Filipino fishing boats were targeted on Friday during "lawful fishing activities."

The incident resulted in injuries to at least three fishermen and significant damage to two boats. These were due to water cannon bombing and dangerous blocking maneuvers by the CCG and maritime militia vessels.