China Coast Guard Uses Water Cannons Against Filipino Fishermen Near Sabina Shoal

China Coast Guard Uses Water Cannons Against Filipino Fishermen Near Sabina Shoal

On Friday, December 15, 2025, a confrontation occurred between the China Coast Guard (CCG) and Filipino fishermen near Sabina Shoal, a maritime feature located approximately 75 nautical miles from the Philippine island of Palawan. The incident involved multiple vessels from the CCG and the China Maritime Militia, which surrounded 20 Filipino fishing boats that were operating in the area. This aggressive action by the Chinese forces included the deployment of high-pressure water cannons and rigid-hulled inflatable boats, which were used to cut the anchor lines of the Philippine vessels, effectively sending them adrift.

Key Details

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) reported that three Filipino fishermen sustained injuries during the incident, which included bruising and open wounds. Additionally, two fishing vessels were damaged as a result of the water cannon blasts from the CCG. The specific CCG vessels involved in this confrontation were identified as cutters 21559 and 21562. In response to the incident, the Chinese government claimed that its coast guard cutters were implementing “necessary control measures” against the Filipino fishermen. This assertion reflects the ongoing tensions in the South China Sea, where China has been increasingly assertive in its territorial claims, particularly under its Ten Dash Line assertion. The area surrounding Sabina Shoal has seen heightened activity from Chinese forces, which have challenged Philippine operations not only at Sabina Shoal but also at Second Thomas Shoal and Scarborough Shoal in recent months. On the same day as the incident near Sabina Shoal, a separate encounter occurred where Chinese military forces, operating under the People’s Liberation Army’s Southern Theater Command, challenged Philippine aircraft that were conducting patrols over Scarborough Shoal. This escalation in military activity underscores the growing tensions in the region, as both nations assert their claims over these contested waters.

Background

The South China Sea has long been a hotspot for territorial disputes, with multiple countries, including China, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Brunei, laying claim to various parts of the sea. The Philippines has consistently sought to assert its rights to fishing and other activities in these waters, particularly in areas like Sabina Shoal, which is part of the Spratly Islands. The Spratly Islands are strategically significant due to their potential oil and gas reserves and their vital shipping lanes. The Chinese government’s aggressive stance in the region has drawn international criticism and concern, particularly from the United States and its allies, who advocate for freedom of navigation and adherence to international law. The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) provides a framework for maritime rights, but China"s expansive claims often conflict with these established norms.

What"s Next

The incident near Sabina Shoal is likely to exacerbate tensions between China and the Philippines, as well as draw attention from the international community. The Philippine government may respond by increasing its naval presence in the area and seeking diplomatic support from allies to counter China"s assertive actions. Additionally, the situation could prompt discussions within international forums regarding maritime security and the enforcement of international law in the South China Sea. As previously reported, similar situations have arisen in the region, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by nations asserting their rights in contested waters. The Philippines" response to this latest incident will be closely monitored, as it may set a precedent for future interactions between the two nations in this strategically important maritime region. For further context on international military cooperation, see our article on recent developments regarding joint military efforts in other regions.