Liu Dejun, a spokesperson for the China Coast Guard (CCG), said on Thursday that Philippine government vessels 3002 and 3003 illegally intruded into the waters near Zhubi Jiao and Tiexian Jiao of China's Nansha Qundao on Wednesday without permission from the Chinese government. The Philippine side also sent personnel to illegally land on Tiexian Jiao and carry out activities there. In response, CCG law enforcement personnel carried out control measures in accordance with the law and boarded the reef to verify the situation, Liu said, adding that on-site operations were conducted in a professional and lawful manner.
Between 9:13 and 9:14 am, the Philippine vessel 3002 ignored repeated stern warnings from the Chinese side and dangerously approached CCG vessel 21559, which at the time was engaged in routine rights protection and law enforcement operations, resulting in a minor collision, Liu said, stressing that the responsibility lies entirely with the Philippines.
China has indisputable sovereignty over the Nansha Qundao and the surrounding waters. The actions of the Philippine side constitute a serious infringement on China's territorial sovereignty, violate the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, and undermine peace and stability in the region, the spokesperson said.
"We urge the Philippine side to immediately cease its infringing actions. The CCG will continue to carry out rights protection and law enforcement activities in waters under China's jurisdiction in accordance with the law," Liu said.
