The South China Sea once again found itself as the backdrop for a serious maritime incident this Monday, when two Chinese vessels—one from the Navy and another from the Coast Guard—collided while rapidly pursuing a Filipino patrol ship in contested waters. This event took place near the disputed Scarborough Shoal, also known as Bajo de Masinloc, where the Philippine Coast Guard had deployed two ships to escort over thirty fishing vessels, according to La Razón.
Philippine spokesperson Jay Tarriela reported on social media platform X that their country's ships were subjected to "dangerous maneuvers" and "blocking actions" by the Chinese vessels, which even resorted to using water cannons. The chase concluded with a collision between the two Chinese ships, resulting in significant damage to one of the vessels and injuries among its crew. Despite the heightened tensions, the Philippines extended an offer of assistance to those affected.
Conflicting Narratives
According to the mentioned source, while Manila accuses Beijing of aggressive actions, the Chinese Coast Guard has yet to confirm the incident. In statements to Xinhua news agency, spokesperson Gan Yu claimed that the vessels acted in a "professional" and "legitimate" manner to expel numerous Filipino boats from the area. Furthermore, Gan Yu reiterated that the shoal is "Chinese territory" and reserved the right to continue military activities to "defend national sovereignty and maritime rights and interests."
Regional Tensions Escalate
This incident comes shortly after China criticized Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for comments about a potential conflict between the United States and China over Taiwan. The South China Sea is one of the most volatile regions in Asian geopolitics, with territorial claims involving China, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Brunei.
Key Questions about the South China Sea Dispute
What led to the collision between the Chinese ships?
The collision occurred during a high-speed pursuit of a Filipino patrol ship by the Chinese Navy and Coast Guard in contested waters, resulting in dangerous and aggressive maneuvers.
How did the Philippines respond to the incident?
The Philippines accused China of aggressive actions but also offered assistance to those affected by the collision.