MANILA, Philippines—A new law plucked by China and allowing its coast guard to use violent force on foreign ships in waters its claims raises the risks of miscalculation, according to Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana on Monday (Feb. 8).
“I’m very concerned about this law because it might cause miscalculations and accidents there especially now that they are now allowed to fire at foreign vessels,” Lorenzana said in an interview with CNN Philippines.
The China Coast Guard, he said, operates in disputed areas in the West Philippine Sea, part of the Philippines’ claims in the South China Sea, where the Philippine navy and coast guard also patrol.
“The chances of accident or mis…
Keep on reading: Lorenzana: New China coast guard law raises risks in South China Sea