US Coast Guard criticizes China for ramming PH BFAR ship near Sabina Shoal

US Coast Guard Deputy Commander Andrew Sugimoto criticized China's enforcement methods as unsafe and unprofessional following a recent incident where a Chinese vessel rammed a Philippine Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) ship.

On August 25, the BRP Datu Sanday was reportedly targeted with multiple ramming incidents and water cannon barrages by a Chinese Coast Guard vessel near Sabina Shoal while conducting a humanitarian mission for Filipino fishermen.

China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs defended its actions as 'professional, restrained, and appropriate,' but Sugimoto emphasized that such methods violate international law to prevent collision at sea.

US Ambassador MaryKay Carlson condemned China's actions as 'unsafe, unlawful, and aggressive', echoing similar statements from Japanese, Australian, French, South Korean, Canadian, New Zealand, and EU diplomats.

Sugimoto highlighted ongoing cooperation between the US Coast Guard and Philippine Coast Guard, including vessel transfers, operational assistance, and training to enhance maritime safety and professionalism.