Philippines condemns China’s ‘barbaric’ confrontation with coast guard

Chinese coast guard vessels initiated a “barbaric and unruly” confrontation with Philippine vessels in a disputed area of the South China Sea, even as U.S. and allied forces conduct major military exercises in the region.

“The recent incident involving China’s provocative actions and blatant disregard of international law towards the Philippines’ coast guard and fishery vessels in Bajo De Masinloc highlights China’s lack of concern for regional peace and stability,” Philippine coast guard Commodore Jay Tarriela wrote Tuesday on social media. “The Philippines’ transparency in bringing these actions to light is a success in showing the world the barbaric and unruly behavior of China, who resort to using force to justify their greed.”