Canada has condemned the recent use of water cannons by Chinese vessels against civilian boats of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) in the South China Sea.
The Canadian Embassy in Manila emphasized that coercion and intimidation threaten peace in the Indo-Pacific region.
The BFAR vessels were on a routine supply mission to Filipino fishing communities when a Chinese Coast Guard ship, 4203, targeted the BRP Datu Matanam Taradapit on June 20.
Canada reiterated its support for coastal states’ rights under international law and urged respect for the 2016 Arbitral Tribunal ruling rejecting China’s expansive maritime claims.
The incident has sparked renewed international calls to uphold maritime rules and safeguard regional stability.
Source: PhilNews24 | June 24, 2025
