The Philippines has condemned three Chinese vessels that blocked and used water cannons on two supply boats.
The Philippine-vessels were transporting food supplies through the South China Sea, in an area occupied by the nation.
But the Chinese Coast Guard intercepted the vessels in the highly-contested area.
The Philippines’ Foreign Affairs Secretary says the act “are illegal,” and has reminded China that public vessels are covered by the Mutual Defence Treaty between the Philippines and United States.
“China has no law enforcement rights in and around these areas. They must take heed and back off,” Locsin said.
Teo-Doro Lock-Sin says “China has no law enforcement rights in and around these areas”.
The Chinese embassy in Manila has not responded to requests for comment from the media.
