Canada denounces Chinese Coast Guard’s aggression against Pinoy fishermen at Sabina Shoal

By Nash Villena, Philippine Canadian Inquirer
December 16, 2025

AID. The Philippine Coast Guard provides medical assistance to Filipino fishermen subjected to the China Coast Guard’s recent harassment at the Sabina Shoal. (Photo Courtesy: Philippine Coast Guard)

MANILA, Philippines — Ottawa expressed deep concerns about China’s recent harassment of Filipino fishermen in Sabina Shoal in the West Philippine Sea, condemning such actions that destabilize peace in the region.

Canadian Ambassador to the Philippines David Hartman on Monday described Beijing’s aggressive actions as serious concerning matters after the China Coast Guard (CCG) targeted some 20 Filipino fishing boats with high-pressure water cannons last Friday, injuring three and damaging two fishing vessels.

“Canada is seriously concerned by the Chinese Coast Guard’s aggressive actions against Filipino civilian fishing vessels near Sabina Shoal,” Hartman wrote on his X account. “These actions jeopardize regional peace and stability.”

Hartman also reminded China that “disputes must be resolved peacefully and in accordance with international law” amid decade-long tensions and recurring maritime incidents in the West Philippine Sea.

About 150 kilometers away from the coast of Palawan, the Sabina Shoal, also known as Escoda Shoal, falls under the 200-nautical-mile Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of the Philippines.

In early November this year, the Philippine and Canadian governments, represented by Defense Secretary Gibo Teodoro and Defence Minister David McGuinty, respectively, signed a Status of Visiting Forces Agreement (SOVFA) to reinforce the military ties between the two nations, strengthening the Canadian force’s presence in the Indo-Pacific region.