DFA calls for self-restraint after Chinese attack on Vietnamese fishermen

The Department of Foreign Affairs has urged Vietnam and China to exercise self-restraint in matters related to the disputed South China Sea.

The DFA reacted to the recent incident wherein 10 Vietnamese fishermen were reportedly beaten with iron bars and robbed of thousands of dollars worth of fish and equipment off the Paracel Islands in the waterways claimed by China, Philippines, Vietnam, Taiwan, Malaysia, and Brunei.

Vietnam condemns China's 'brutal behavior' in fisher attack

“The Philippines is aware of reports of a serious incident occurring on 29 September 2024 involving VNM fishermen and CHN maritime authorities," the DFA said in a statement.

"The Philippines has consistently denounced the use of force, aggression and intimidation in the South China Sea, and emphasized the need for actors to exercise genuine self-restraint." 

The DFA said it is an obligation for any country to ensure the safety at sea of their vessels and their crew, especially fisherfolk.

Vietnamese fishers attacked in South China Sea: state media

The DFA hopes that the dispute will be settled peacefully.

"The PHL underscores the need for disputes in the SCS to be managed peacefully and in accordance with international law, particularly UNCLOS,” it said.