Senator Estrada Urges Strong Protest After China Attacks PH Research Vessel in West Philippine Sea

By Sherman Calotes | Philippine People's Press 

MANILA – Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada has denounced what he called another act of "brazen aggression" by the China Coast Guard (CCG) after a Philippine marine research vessel was rammed and targeted with water cannons near Pag-asa Island earlier this week.

The incident, which occurred on May 21, involved the BRP Datu Sanday, a vessel under the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), conducting a routine scientific research mission near Pag-asa Cay 2 (Sandy Cay) in the West Philippine Sea. According to Philippine authorities, CCG vessel 21559 twice sideswiped the BRP Datu Sanday and fired water cannons, damaging its port bow and smokestack and endangering the lives of Filipino scientists and crew members aboard.

“This is yet another shameless provocation. We must not stay silent,” Estrada said in a strongly worded statement. “The Philippines should file a firm and unequivocal diplomatic protest. Our response must be clear: we will not be bullied.”

The senator, a senior member of the upper chamber, underscored the persistent harassment by China in Philippine waters and warned that continued inaction would only embolden further provocations.

“Hindi na ito nakakagulat,” Estrada added. “Pero hindi tayo magpapatinag. Bawat paglapastangan sa ating karapatan at teritoryo ay dapat nating iprotesta at labanan.”

Estrada called on the national government to strengthen ties with regional allies to deter future threats and uphold the rule of law in the contested waters.

“This latest incident is a wake-up call,” he said. “We must reinforce our diplomatic and defense cooperation with like-minded nations who value peace, freedom of navigation, and regional stability.”

BFAR, in a separate statement, condemned the CCG’s “aggressive interference,” marking this as the first recorded assault on a civilian fisheries research vessel operating near the disputed area.

As tensions rise once again in the West Philippine Sea, the Philippine government faces renewed pressure to respond decisively and safeguard its sovereign rights, especially in light of increasing Chinese incursions into its exclusive economic zone.

(Source: PNA, File Photo by Philippine Coast Guard)