China Coast Guard uses water cannons on BFAR ship at Bajo de Masinloc

Two China Coast Guard (CCG) vessels damaged a ship operated by the Department of Agriculture’s Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) with water cannons at Bajo de Masinloc early Tuesday, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said. 

The PCG said the BFAR’s BRP Datu Gumbay Piang was conducting a resupply mission when the harassment happened. This resulted in damage to the Filipino ship and injured one crewman. 

“At approximately 9:14 AM, CCG 5201 directed its water cannon at the starboard side of the BRP Datu Gumbay Piang, which was located 14 nautical miles east of BDM. This aggressive action lasted for about 29 minutes, resulting in significant damage including shattered glass from the aft window of the bridge, damage to the captain's cabin partitions, and a short circuit affecting electrical outlets and five outdoor air conditioning units. One personnel from DA-BFAR sustained injuries due to the shattered glass caused by the water cannon,” the PCG said. 

“Simultaneously, CCG 21562 engaged the vessel from the port side, also utilizing water cannon fire while positioned 17 nautical miles east of BDM Shoal,” the PCG added. 

Further, the PCG said another Chinese maritime militia vessel, CMM 00001, conducted dangerous maneuvers and attempted to blast water cannons on the Filipino ship. But the BRP Datu Gumbay Piang “effectively executed safety maneuvers to avert any potential damage.” 

The PCG also said that there was a People’s Liberation Army-Navy warship with bow number 525 that issued a radio broadcast announcing live fire exercises at specified coordinates, causing panic among Filipino fishermen in the nearby waters. 

The Philippines refers to parts of the waters within its exclusive economic zone as the West Philippine Sea - or maritime areas on the western side of the Philippine archipelago including Luzon Sea and the waters around, within and adjacent to the Kalayaan Island Group and Bajo de Masinloc.

The 2016 arbitration ruling upheld the Philippines' exclusive economic zone over China's historical claims in the disputed South China Sea  under UNCLOS. Beijing has never recognized the decision. — Vince Angelo Ferreras/RF, GMA Integrated News