In a recent confrontation in the South China Sea, the Philippines has accused China’s coast guard of engaging in “dangerous manoeuvres” that resulted in a collision between a Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) vessel and a Chinese ship during a resupply mission. The incident adds to the ongoing maritime disputes in the region, with both nations asserting their claims in the contested waters.
PCG spokesperson Jay Tarriela took to social media to condemn China’s coast guard, claiming their “reckless and illegal actions” caused the collision. Video clips accompanying the post reveal the tense moment when the ships collided, causing minor structural damage to the PCG vessel. The resupply mission aimed to support Filipino troops stationed at the Second Thomas Shoal, reinforcing Manila’s sovereignty claims in the area.
China’s coast guard countered the accusations, asserting that the Philippine vessels had illegally intruded into waters adjacent to the shoal, known as Renai Reef in China. The Chinese authorities argued that they had to take control measures to protect their territorial integrity.
This clash is the latest in a series of maritime incidents between the Philippines and China, despite a 2016 ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration, which rejected China’s claims in the South China Sea. The territorial dispute remains a source of tension, with both nations taking assertive measures to defend their interests.
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr, speaking at a forum in Australia, emphasized his country’s willingness to engage in talks with China but made it clear that the Philippines would push back when its sovereignty and maritime rights are ignored. This marks a departure from the pro-China stance adopted by Marcos’s predecessor, Rodrigo Duterte.
Marcos accused Beijing of aggression in the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone, pointing to incidents involving water cannon, “military-grade” lasers, and collision tactics used by Chinese forces to drive away Philippine vessels. The Philippines remains committed to diplomatic solutions but stands firm in safeguarding its territorial integrity.
The China Coast Guard responded with a brief statement, citing previous incidents and referring to the “illegal invasion of Scarborough Shoal” on Feb. 23. The statement maintained that China’s actions were in accordance with the law and aimed at protecting its interests in the disputed waters.
