October 13, 2025 — Manila, Philippines
The United States has strongly condemned the latest act of aggression by China against a Philippine vessel operating within the West Philippine Sea.
In a statement shared on social media, U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay L. Carlson described China’s actions as a clear disregard for international law, emphasizing that such behavior undermines peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
Ambassador Carlson also commended the bravery and professionalism of Filipino personnel who were involved in the recent incident near Pag-asa Island (also known as Thitu Island). The confrontation reportedly involved Chinese vessels engaging in dangerous maneuvers, including ramming and the use of water cannons against Philippine ships conducting legitimate operations within the country’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
Carlson reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to support the Philippines in its advocacy for a free and open Indo-Pacific, a principle that upholds freedom of navigation and respect for national sovereignty among nations in the region.
“The United States stands with the Philippines in defending the rules-based international order,” Carlson said, echoing Washington’s consistent position on the maritime dispute.
The incident adds to a growing list of maritime confrontations that highlight China’s continued pressure on Filipino fishermen and Philippine government vessels operating lawfully in the West Philippine Sea.
Meanwhile, the Philippine government reiterated its call for the international community to uphold the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and respect the 2016 Arbitral Ruling, which affirmed the Philippines’ sovereign rights within its maritime zones.