China Coast Guard vessels water cannon, ram BFAR ships near Pag-asa Island

Three Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) vessels were subjected to aggressive actions by China Coast Guard (CCG) vessels during a routine maritime patrol near Pag-asa Island.

At least two CCG vessels fired water cannons at the BFAR ships, with one vessel, CCG-21559, also ramming the stern of the BRP Datu Pagbuaya.

Initially, it was reported that only BRP Datu Pagbuaya was directly hit by water cannon and ramming, but it was later clarified that two additional BFAR vessels, BRP Datu Bankaw and BRP Datu Sanday, were also water cannoned by CCG-21559.

The BFAR vessels were providing protection for Filipino fishermen as part of the 'Kadiwa ng Bagong Bayaning Mangingisda' program when the incidents occurred.

Although the BRP Datu Pagbuaya sustained minor structural damage from the ramming and water cannoning, no crew members were injured.

Philippine Coast Guard spokesperson Commodore Jay Tarriela described the CCG's maneuvers as dangerous and provocative.

In addition to the five CCG vessels involved, more than 15 Chinese maritime militia vessels were also spotted in the area.