Philippines told to fast-track security deals after recent water cannon attack

A PHILIPPINE senator on Sunday called China’s coast guard use of water cannons against Filipino fishers at a disputed South China Sea shoal last week as escalatory, urging the government to fast-track security agreements with other nations to widen Manila’s web of allies. Sena

tor Risa N. Hont

iveros-Baraquel said the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) should deploy more vessels to accompany fishers in the South China Sea to prevent further harassment at sea. “Our

fisherfolk must not be left defenseless,” she said in a statement. “This es

calating violence must compel our government to immediately fast-track defense treaty negotiations with like-minded countries.” “China seems

intent on getting what she wants at the cost of not only our territories, but also our people,” she added. The Chinese Emba

ssy in Manila did not immediately reply to a Viber message seeking comment. Manila’s coast g

uard on Saturday said that three Filipino fishermen were wounded as two fishing vessels suffered “significant damage” when China Coast Guard ships used water cannons near Sabina Shoal. “This is an escalation

beyond the usual water cannoning of PCG vessels,” House Deputy Minority Leader and Party-list Rep. Leila M. de Lima said in a

separate statement. “This is utterly outrageou