This is AI generated summarization, which may have errors. For context, always refer to the full article.The Philippines, meanwhile, says it 'will not be deterred – by veiled threats or hostility – from exercising our legal rights'
China claims practically all of the South China Sea, including the West Philippine Sea, in defiance of a 2016 arbitral ruling that deemed its claim invalid. By “firmly obstructed,” Beijing was referring to the use of dangerous maneuvers at sea, including at least one instance where a CCG ship sailed in reverse in an attempt to block the Unaizah May 4, a civilian ship that the Navy uses to bring supplies and troops to the BRP Sierra Madre. CCG vessels also used water cannons against the Unaizah May 4, the same wooden vessel it damaged during a resupply mission earlier in March.
“Nansha Qundao and its adjacent waters, including Ren’ai Jiao, have always been China’s territory. This is established in the long course of history, and complies with international law,” said the Chinese foreign ministry. “We warn the Philippines that playing with fire is an invitation of disgrace, and the China Coast Guard is ready at all times to defend the country’s territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests,” the CCG’s spokesperson had said.– including Manila’s treaty ally United States, as well as Japan, the European Union, the United Kingdom, and Australia, among others – expressed concern over what was only the latest harassment of Philippine ships at the hands of the Chinese.