Manila: The Philippines on Wednesday accused China’s coast guard of harassment, obstruction and “dangerous manoeuvres” against its vessels, after another incident near a strategic feature of the South China Sea that has become a flashpoint between them.
Philippine coast guard boats were assisting a naval operation on June 30 when they were “constantly followed, harassed, and obstructed by the significantly larger Chinese coast guard vessels”, Philippine coast guard spokesperson Jay Tarriela, said. It took place near the Second Thomas Shoal. ,China’s embassy in Manila did not respond to a request for comment. Tarriela said the vessels had to reduce speed to prevent a collision. The shoal is located inside the Philippines’ 200-mile exclusive economic zone. Tarriela described as “alarming” what he said was the presence of Chinese navy ships in the area, adding that raised “greater concerns”.
China has previously said its coast guard were conducting regular operations in what are Chinese waters.
Philippine coast guard boats were assisting a naval operation on June 30 when they were “constantly followed, harassed, and obstructed by the significantly larger Chinese coast guard vessels”, Philippine coast guard spokesperson Jay Tarriela, said. It took place near the Second Thomas Shoal. ,China’s embassy in Manila did not respond to a request for comment. Tarriela said the vessels had to reduce speed to prevent a collision. The shoal is located inside the Philippines’ 200-mile exclusive economic zone. Tarriela described as “alarming” what he said was the presence of Chinese navy ships in the area, adding that raised “greater concerns”.
China has previously said its coast guard were conducting regular operations in what are Chinese waters.