It is deeply concerning and must be condemned in the strongest terms the firing of flares by China at a Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) aircraft conducting a lawful mission over Zamora reef.
Such actions are not only irresponsible but also dangerously provocative. Deploying flares multiple times at a dangerously close distance is neither professional, restrained nor standardized, contrary to China’s claims. It’s irresponsible, a blatant violation of international law, and a direct threat to the safety of our personnel. It could have led to serious harm or even loss of lives.
I call on China to cease these unlawful and extreme actions immediately. China should adhere to international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Seas (UNCLOS) and for the peaceful resolution of disputes in the West Philippine Sea.
I call on the international community to join our government in holding China accountable for these reckless actions and reaffirm the importance of respecting international law and the sovereignty of nations.