The NTF-WPS states that China’s new water cannon action against PH vessels is not considered an ‘act of war’

In recent news, the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea (NTF-WPS) has downplayed the recent water cannon incident involving Chinese vessels and Filipino fishing boats in the disputed waters. According to the NTF-WPS, the action of the Chinese vessels cannot be considered as an ‘act of war’ but is still a cause for concern.

The incident, which happened near the Scarborough Shoal, involved Chinese coast guard ships using water cannons on Filipino fishing boats in an attempt to drive them away from the area. This is not the first time such an incident has occurred in the area, as tensions have been rising between China and the Philippines over territorial disputes in the South China Sea.

Despite the provocative actions of the Chinese vessels, the NTF-WPS emphasized that the incident should not be blown out of proportion and should not be considered as an ‘act of war’ between the two countries. Instead, the NTF-WPS called for a peaceful and diplomatic resolution to the ongoing territorial disputes in the South China Sea.

The NTF-WPS also reiterated the Philippines’ commitment to protecting its sovereignty and territorial integrity in the region. The task force emphasized that while the incident may not be an ‘act of war’, the Philippines will not hesitate to assert its rights and defend its interests in the West Philippine Sea.

The water cannon incident serves as a reminder of the continuous challenges and complex dynamics in the South China Sea. It highlights the need for all parties involved to exercise restraint and conduct themselves in a manner that promotes stability and peace in the region.

The Philippines has been vocal about its commitment to resolving the territorial disputes in the South China Sea through peaceful and diplomatic means. The country has been engaging in bilateral and multilateral discussions with other claimant countries and has been advocating for the implementation of the 2016 arbitral ruling, which invalidated China’s expansive claims in the South China Sea.

While the recent water cannon incident may not be considered as an ‘act of war’ by the NTF-WPS, it has certainly raised concerns about the increasing tensions and aggressive actions in the disputed waters. It is crucial for all parties involved to respect international law, exercise self-restraint, and work towards a peaceful resolution to the territorial disputes in the South China Sea.

In conclusion, the recent water cannon incident involving Chinese vessels and Filipino fishing boats in the West Philippine Sea may not be deemed as an ‘act of war’ by the NTF-WPS, but it underscores the need for a peaceful and diplomatic resolution to the ongoing territorial disputes in the region. It is imperative for all parties involved to uphold international law, exercise self-restraint, and work towards maintaining peace and stability in the South China Sea.