CGC shouldn't spoil our Christmas with unwanted aggression -senator

After China used water cannons against Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources research vessels headed to the Scarborough Shoal, Senator Francis Tolentino on Saturday said the Chinese Coast Guard should not spoil our Christmas with "unwarranted aggression."

“We strongly condemn China’s use of water cannons against civilian research vessels near Bajo de Masinloc within the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone, undermining peace and stability in the region," said the Senator.

According to Jun Veneracion's report on Super Radyo dzBB, the BFAR vessels were on a mission to distribute oil and other supplies to fisherfolk in the area.

The use of water cannon started at around 9 a.m. and continued until noon.

"As a flotilla of civilian Filipino vessels prepared to deliver Christmas gifts within the Philippine EEZ, we hope the international community will remain united against harassment and that the festive spirit of generosity and goodwill will not be overshadowed by the forces of intimidation," he said.

BFAR officials onboard the vessels said it was the first time the Chinese coast guard directly fired a water cannon at their ships. Previously, Chinese vessels just "shadowed" them during resupply missions.

This was not the first time the Chinese Coast Guard drove away Philippine vessels around the Scarborough Shoal. — DVM, GMA Integrated News