MANILA, Philippines — Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. on Wednesday slammed China over its “downright uncivilized” acts that led to the injury of four Philippine Navy personnel in the West Philippine Sea.
Teodoro was reacting to the latest incident in Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal, where two China Coast Guard personnel used water cannons against Unaizah Mae 4, a Navy-contracted ship for the regular resupply mission for the BRP Sierra Madre.
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The assault led to the shattering of the boat’s glass window, causing minor cuts to the Philippine Navy personnel.
“The acts of the PRC’s agents in the West Philippine Sea are patently illegal and downright uncivilized,” the Department of National Defense chief said in a statement.
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Teodoro also rejected China’s claim that its actions were “in accordance with law to defend its own sovereignty, rights, and interests.”
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“They take great pains to mischaracterize their provocations as lawful under international law,” Teodoro said.