Chinese Navy vessel aims laser at BFAR aircraft in WPS

A Chinese Navy missile boat aimed lasers at a Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) aircraft during a maritime patrol in the West Philippine Sea near Hasa-Hasa Shoal on Friday, September 27.

The incident occurred as two BFAR ships were en route to aid Filipino fishermen, with a BFAR aircraft accompanying them.

The Chinese Navy vessel did not respond to a radio challenge from the pilots, Charles Manalo and Alex Garay, who warned of the danger.

The National Maritime Council (NMC) described the action as a 'gross violation of international laws,' including the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

NMC spokesman Undersecretary Alexander Lopez stated that such actions within the Philippines' Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) impact the safety and security of overflights.

Lopez also noted that lasers can cause temporary blindness and pose grave safety and security concerns for pilots.

Reports of the incident will be submitted to the Department of Foreign Affairs for appropriate diplomatic action.

A China Coast Guard vessel previously involved in damaging Philippine vessels was also present in the area.