WASHINGTON, USA – The United States has voiced strong support for the Philippines amid escalating tensions with the People’s Republic of China (PRC) in the South China Sea. On August 31, a China Coast Guard vessel reportedly collided three times with a Philippine Coast Guard vessel engaged in lawful navigation within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ), resulting in damage and putting the crew’s safety at risk.
This incident marks the latest in a series of provocative actions by the PRC, which has been increasingly disrupting lawful Philippine aerial and maritime operations throughout August 2024. Matthew Miller, a spokesperson for the U.S. Department of State, highlighted these alarming developments during official statements.
The PRC’s unfounded claims of “territorial sovereignty” over marine areas lacking any land territory pose a significant threat to global navigation and overflight rights.
The United States has reiterated its position, urging the PRC to align its claims and actions with international law and to cease activities that destabilize regional security.
Additionally, the U.S. reinforced the stipulations of Article IV of the 1951 United States-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty, emphasizing that it covers armed attacks against Philippine armed forces, public vessels, or aircraft, including Coast Guard vessels, throughout the South China Sea.
