Video shows China water cannon sent PH resupply crew scampering

Video of the water cannon attack by the China Coast Guard of the Philippine resupply ship Unaizah May 4 showed the latter’s Filipino crew praying for divine intervention while scampering for safety.

The video taken on March 23 on board Unazaih May 4 showed the water cannon blasting through the resupply ship, destroying its interiors, and sending the personnel scurrying for cover. 

The resupply ship was hit a second time in the video with water powering straight through the ship like a storm engulfing it in chaos. 

“Tama na Lord,” a member of the crew was heard saying.

(Enough already, Lord.)  

There were shouts for medical assistance. 

A sailor was injured in the left eye as others were heard coughing off water after the water cannoning. 

The ship was in total disarray as personnel tried to take stock of what just happened. 

Personnel can also be heard saying their phones were broken.  

Despite this, one was heard saying “tawa lang, tawa lang! (laugh it off) to uplift the morale inside the resupply ship. 

The video illustrates the dangerous action by China in trying to block the resupply ship from reaching a Philippine naval post, the BRP Sierra Madre stationed in Ayungin Shoal inside the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone.

China had said that the China Coast Guard “implemented lawful regulation, interception, and expulsion in a reasonable and professional manner” and further warned that “playing with fire Is an invitation of disgrace.” 

The Philippines maintains that the resupply missions are regular administrative functions conducted on an active naval post. 

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. also said that only the Philippines has a legitimate right to operate in the West Philippine Sea. 

National Security Adviser Sec. Eduard Año said three personnel were injured as he said the Philippines will not be deterred and intimidated by the latest actions by China. 

On March 5, China Coast Guard vessels also water cannoned the same resupply ship injuring four personnel and had on board Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Western Command Commander Vice Admiral Alberto Carlos. 

In December last year, the China Coast Guard also water cannoned and impaired the resupply ship M/L Kalayaan. At that time, AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner and Carlos were on board Unaizah on May 1 and successfully reached BRP Sierra Madre.