China Coast Guard Fires Water Cannons At Philippine Vessels Near Disputed Shoal

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) were subjected to multiple water cannon attacks and dangerous maneuvers by China Coast Guard vessels on the morning of July 24, 2026, while conducting the Kadiwa ng Bagong Bayaning Mangingisda program near Bajo de Masinloc.

The operation was intended to deliver fuel subsidies and provisions to Filipino fishing boats and support the safety and security of Filipino fisherfolk exercising their legitimate rights in their traditional fishing ground.

At approximately 6:26 a.m., China Coast Guard vessel 3107 fired a water cannon at BRP Cape San Agustin from about 400 meters away while the Philippine vessel was on maritime patrol around 15 nautical miles northeast of Bajo de Masinloc. Before the incident, the vessel was being shadowed by at least six China Coast Guard vessels along with Chinese Maritime Militia vessels.

At about 7:35 a.m., China Coast Guard vessel 21581 began directing water cannon fire at BRP Datu Paduhinog while it was traveling about 12 nautical miles northeast of the shoal. The Chinese vessel also closed to within about seven meters of the Philippine vessel’s port bow and had switched off its Automatic Identification System.

At approximately 7:53 a.m., BRP Datu Paduhinog was struck directly by a water cannon, followed by two more direct hits at around 8:00 a.m. The vessel later experienced a temporary loss of satellite internet connectivity while transiting about 10 nautical miles northeast of Bajo de Masinloc before service was restored at 8:36 a.m.

At around 8:09 a.m., Chinese Maritime Militia vessel 00318 was observed towing a rope about 100 meters behind BRP Datu Sumakwel, creating a navigation hazard. At approximately 8:55 a.m., China Coast Guard vessel 3303 also fired its water cannon at BRP Datu Cabaylo from about 300 meters astern.

Despite the incidents, all PCG and DA-BFAR personnel remained safe, and the vessels continued operating in support of Filipino fisherfolk.