DND chief denounces China’s ‘dangerous, inhumane’ actions in WPS

By Priam Nepomuceno, Philippine News Agency

Department of National Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. (Department of National Defense – Philippines/facebook)

MANILA – Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. on Tuesday scored China for the “dangerous and inhumane actions” taken by its maritime forces against Filipino fisherfolk in Escoda Shoal (also known as Sabina Shoal) in the West Philippine Sea.

In a statement, Teodoro said the water cannoning, aggressive maneuvering and the cutting of anchor lines resulting in physical injuries of Filipino civilians are inconsistent with the duty of all States to ensure the safety of human lives.

On Dec. 12, China Coast Guard ships harassed artisanal Filipino fishers in Escoda Shoal which lies 70 nautical miles away from mainland Palawan and well within the Philippines exclusive economic zone.

Teodoro said the attempt by the spokesperson of China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs to justify these actions by invoking “indisputable sovereignty” and peddling blatant lies like “knife-wielding” fishermen are not supported by facts and evidence.

Teodoro called on China to stop spreading false narratives and engaging in state-orchestrated disinformation campaigns.

“States aspiring for regional leadership should act responsibly,” he said.

“We reiterate that maritime entitlements in the area are governed by the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), and that the 2016 Arbitral Award is final and binding. Claims and actions that disregard these legal principles undermine the rules-based international order and erode regional peace and stability,” he added.

Teodoro said the Philippines also rejects the assertion that other nations have “no right” to comment or respond.

“Unlike China, we in the Philippines don’t silence dissent with violence and intimidation,” Teodoro said.