Rubio slams China latest water cannon attack

United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio condemned last week China’s latest water cannon attack against a Philippine government vessel in the Scarborough Shoal, describing the incident as “disturbing” and reaffirming Washington’s commitment to defending freedom of navigation and its treaty obligations to the Philippines.

Rubio made the remarks after a Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) vessel blasted the BRP Datu Dumangsil with a water cannon for more than two minutes while it was carrying out a Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) mission to distribute fuel subsidies to Filipino fishermen in the disputed waters.

Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Pasay City, Rubio said the incident reflects the growing challenges posed by China’s expansive maritime claims in the region.

“That’s why we continue to reiterate our commitment to our treaty partners, but also our commitment to freedom of navigation and respect for territorial rights in the region,” Rubio said.

He added that maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific remains a key pillar of U.S. engagement with ASEAN and its regional partners.

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said the BRP Datu Dumangsil was one of two BFAR vessels subjected to dangerous maneuvers by the Chinese Coast Guard while conducting a routine mission near Scarborough Shoal.

Despite the harassment, no injuries were reported and both Philippine vessels completed their mission.

The latest confrontation adds to a series of maritime incidents in the West Philippine Sea that have drawn international concern and renewed calls for adherence to international law and the protection of lawful maritime activities.