PH responders blocked by Chinese forces while responding to suspected dynamite fishing near Pag-asa Island, says PCG
The Philippine Coast Guard reported that Chinese maritime forces blocked their vessels while they were responding to suspected dynamite fishing near Pag-asa Island. The incident involved close-range maneuvering and aerial intimidation by a Chinese naval helicopter.
Why it matters
This event underscores the escalating tensions in the West Philippine Sea and the ongoing territorial disputes between the Philippines and China.
Manila Bulletin - PH responders blocked by Chinese forces while responding to suspected dynamite fishing near Pag-asa Island, says PCG
PH responders blocked by Chinese forces while responding to suspected dynamite fishing near Pag-asa Island, says PCG
A Philippine Coast Guard (PCG)-led team was allegedly blocked by Chinese maritime forces while responding to a Chinese fishing vessel suspected of conducting dynamite fishing near Pag-asa Island.
The Chinese vessel ignored orders to stop and fled toward Zamora (Subi) Reef, while China Coast Guard vessel 21581 shadowed and blocked the Philippine boats, according to the PCG. A Chinese naval helicopter also circled the team four times.
The PCG-led team ended the pursuit for safety reasons and returned safely to Pag-asa, with the Coast Guard stressing that the operation was a routine law enforcement mission and that the incident would be referred to the Department of Foreign Affairs.
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