China has issued a stern warning to the Philippines, stating that it will face consequences for a flotilla of civilian ships that sailed to Bajo de Masinloc, also known as Scarborough Shoal, in an effort to assert the Philippines’ territorial sovereignty.
Wang Wenbin, spokesperson for China’s Foreign Ministry, emphasized that any misuse of China’s goodwill allowing Filipino fishing boats in the West Philippine Sea will prompt a response from Beijing.
“China made a goodwill arrangement in 2016 for Filipino fishermen to fish with a small number of small fishing boats in the adjacent waters of Huangyan Dao, while China continues to oversee and monitor relevant activities of the Filipino fishermen in accordance with law,” Wang stated during a press conference.
He added, “If the Philippines abuses China’s goodwill and infringes upon China’s territorial sovereignty and jurisdiction, we will defend our rights and take countermeasures in accordance with the law.”
The warning followed an incident on Wednesday, when five wooden-hulled commercial fishing ships and approximately 100 fishing boats headed towards Bajo de Masinloc, a disputed area in the West Philippine Sea. The mission faced complications as at least two China Coast Guard (CCG) vessels were seen trailing the convoy.
China maintains that the West Philippine Sea, including Bajo de Masinloc, is part of its territory, a claim Wang described as “indisputable.”
He further stated that any actions by the Philippines against this claim would result in consequences solely borne by the Philippines. “Relevant responsibilities and consequences shall be borne solely by the Philippines,” Wang asserted.