Jay Tarriela

Stories

Water cannons on fishermen: Sabina Shoal becomes China–Philippines’ new front line

As of May 2026: Public face of Manila’s ‘name-and-shame’ maritime strategy

A month ago, China's coast guard escalated beyond shoving resupply convoys. It blasted water cannons at small Philippine fishing boats near Sabina (Escoda) Shoal, damaged two vessels, and left three fishermen injured. Chinese craft allegedly cut anchor lines and boxed out rescuers.

Updated May 15

Notable Quotes

"The Chinese coast guard is now targeting ordinary fishermen." — Jay Tarriela, briefing reported by AP/Washington Post

from Water cannons on fishermen: Sabina Shoal becomes China–Philippines’ new front line · Updated May 15

"The Philippines is not 'playing victim' but is genuinely always a victim of Chinese actions." — Jay Tarriela, responding to Chinese Embassy claims, January 2026

from Water cannons on fishermen: Sabina Shoal becomes China–Philippines’ new front line · Updated May 15