MANILA – Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) and maritime militia vessels escalated aggression in the West Philippine Sea on Friday, December 12, 2025, firing high-pressure water cannons at around 20 Filipino fishing boats near Escoda (Sabina) Shoal, injuring three fishermen and damaging two vessels. The three-hour harassment, which marked the first reported use of water cannons directly against civilian fishing boats in the area, drove the fishermen away from their traditional grounds and disrupted a resupply point for Philippine troops at nearby Ayungin Shoal.
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) condemned the incident as a “serious violation of the human rights of ordinary Filipino fishermen,” with spokesperson Commodore Jay Tarriela stating: “Before, the CCG only tried to intimidate our fishermen to discourage them from fishing.” He emphasized that the civilians have “legitimate sovereign rights” to fish in the Philippine exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
Details of the Incident
- Location: Escoda Shoal, approximately 140 km west of Palawan.
- Vessels Involved: At least five CCG ships (including hull numbers 21559 and 21562) and several Chinese maritime militia boats.
- Actions: Water cannon blasts targeted two boats directly, causing one to take on water (later pumped out) and possible engine damage. Smaller rigid-hull inflatable boats (RHIBs) cut anchor lines, endangering crews in strong currents and rough seas.
- Injuries: Three fishermen sustained bruises and open wounds (non-serious); treated by PCG medics.
- Impact: Affected ~300 fishermen on indigenous wooden boats from Palawan, Mindoro, and Zambales.
Videos captured CCG sirens, blocking maneuvers, and direct water jets hitting boats. The PCG dispatched two multirole response vessels (MRRV-4403 and MRRV-4411) on December 13 for aid, but faced further blocking by CCG ships.
Broader Context: Escalating Tensions in the West Philippine Sea
Escoda Shoal has emerged as a new flashpoint, with China deploying vessels and structures despite the 2016 arbitral ruling affirming Philippine rights. This incident follows months of harassment, including ramming and water cannon use against Philippine resupply missions. China claims the area under its “nine-dash line,” rejected internationally.
The Philippine government, through the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea, vowed continued support for fishermen via “Kadiwa” programs distributing fuel, food, and ice.
As holiday travel ramps up, this aggression highlights risks to Filipino livelihoods in sovereign waters— a reminder that in disputed seas, civilian safety hangs in the balance.
Incident Snapshot:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Date | December 12, 2025 |
| Injured | 3 fishermen (bruises, open wounds) |
| Boats Damaged | 2 (water intake, possible engine issues) |
| Fishermen Affected | ~300 on 20 boats |
| PCG Response | Medical aid, supplies; vessels on site |