Gallagher Statement on Chinese Coast Guard Ramming of Philippine Ship

WASHINGTON, DC – Chairman Mike Gallagher today released the statement below on Chinese Coast Guard and maritime militia vessels ramming Philippine Coast Guard and resupply ships carrying supplies to troops stationed on the BRP Sierra Madre in the Second Thomas Shoal.

“On two separate occasions over the weekend, vessels of the Chinese Coast Guard and maritime militia forces rammed Philippine ships operating legally in the South China Sea. The Chinese Communist Party’s dangerous, and illegal, attacks against our ally are completely unacceptable It is time to take additional measures to support our commitments under the U.S.-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty, including by assisting the Philippines in establishing a more secure and permanent foothold on the Second Thomas Shoal.”