Marcos Vows to Defend Philippines' Rights in South China Sea After China Damages Ship and Injures Troops
-
Marcos said Philippines will not be "cowed into silence" by China over South China Sea confrontations that injured Filipino troops and damaged vessels.
-
Latest incident occurred near Second Thomas Shoal when China Coast Guard blocked Philippine resupply vessel, damaging it with water cannon and injuring 3 soldiers.
-
China blamed Philippines for raising tensions and intruding into Chinese waters, but Marcos hit back saying Philippines will respond proportionately.
-
China claims almost entire South China Sea, but international ruling says its assertion has no legal basis. It has been most assertive player, concerning other claimants.
-
US reiterated "ironclad" commitment to treaty ally Philippines in call after latest incident, as Marcos said international community offered help to protect Philippines' sovereignty.