THE United States, European Union and Australia condemned the Chinese Coast Guard’s (CCG) alleged aggressive, illegal actions against Philippine vessels operating within the country’s exclusive economic zone.

US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson’s statement was in reaction to an incident on Sunday where the Chinese Coast Guard fired water cannons causing “serious engine damage” to one of the two Philippine resupply vessel.

“We condemn PRC’s aggressive, illegal actions against Philippines BFAR vessels lawfully operating in the Philippines EEZ. This PRC behavior violates international law and endangers lives and livelihoods,” Carlson posted on X (formerly Twitter).

She reiterated the US government’s support to the Philippines.

“We stand with our Philippine#FriendsPartnersAllies in support of a #FreeAndOpenIndoPacific.”

EU Ambassador to the Philippines Luc Veron posted on X “another deeply troubling incident today, water cannons used again.”

Veron stressed that the United Nations on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) dispute settlement mechanisms maintain the rule of law.

“The 2016 UNCLOS Tribunal Award is a valuable framework for peaceful resolution. Water cannons and dangerous sea maneuvers aren’t a legitimate alternative,” he added.

Australian Ambassador to Manila HK Yu in her post on X also expressed serious concerns about the reported incident on Sunday.

“Seriously concerned by reports of dangeropus actions by Chinese vessels against Philippine vessels today. This endangers lives and livelihoods, Australia again reiterates the call for peace, stability and respect for UNCLOS in the South China Sea, a vital international waterway for us all.”

The National Task Force- West Philippine Sea in a statement said the Chinese coast guard and Chinese maritime militia vessels harassed, blocked, and executed dangerous maneuvers on Philippine civilian supply vessels in an attempt to obstruct a routine resupply and totation mission to BRP Sierra Madre at Ayungin Shoal.

The Chinese vessel fired water cannon against Philippine resupply vessels causing severe damage to M/L Kalavaan’s engines, seriously endangering the lives of its crew.

The Task Force reiterated Ayungin Shoal is a low-tide elevation within the Philippines EEZ and continental shelf in accordance with UNCLOS and as upheld by the 2016 Arbitral Award.