Tensions in the South China Sea have escalated following a recent maritime clash between Chinese and Philippine vessels. According to statements released by China’s Coast Guard on Monday, a Philippine vessel allegedly “deliberately collided” with a Chinese Coast Guard ship, an act described as “unprofessional and dangerous.”
The incident occurred early Monday morning at approximately 3:24 a.m. local time (1924 GMT on Sunday), near the disputed Sabina Shoal. China Coast Guard spokesperson Gan Yu asserted that two Philippine Coast Guard vessels had “illegally intruded” into waters adjacent to Sabina Shoal without permission, prompting the confrontation.
A short video of the collision, shared by the China Coast Guard on social media, shows the clash between the two vessels. The video, which labels the involved Chinese vessel as a Coast Guard ship, has been used to bolster China’s claims of provocation by the Philippines.
In the aftermath of the collision, the Philippine vessel reportedly moved towards waters near Second Thomas Shoal after being prevented from entering Sabina Shoal. This move was interpreted by China’s maritime authorities as further provocation. Gan Yu criticized the Philippines for violating “temporary arrangements” between the two nations and for its supply missions to a vessel grounded on Second Thomas Shoal.
China’s Coast Guard stated that it took “control measures” against the Philippine vessels in accordance with the law and issued a stern warning to the Philippines to “immediately stop infringement and provocation” or face “all consequences.”
The incident follows a provisional agreement reached between China and the Philippines in July, aimed at reducing tensions after several altercations near Second Thomas Shoal. Despite this agreement, China has faced significant criticism from Western nations for its aggressive actions, particularly in obstructing Philippine resupply efforts to a navy ship intentionally grounded 25 years ago.
Beijing’s claims over almost the entire South China Sea, including both Sabina and Second Thomas Shoals, have been widely disputed. The 2016 ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague invalidated Beijing’s expansive claims under international law, a decision that China continues to reject.
The Philippine Coast Guard has yet to respond to requests for comment regarding the latest accusations. The ongoing maritime disputes in the South China Sea remain a source of significant tension between China and the Philippines, with both nations navigating a complex and volatile geopolitical landscape.
Sources By Agencies
