Chinese and Philippine ships clashed near Scarborough Shoal, with both sides blaming each other amid heightened regional tensions and international concern.
Tensions escalated Tuesday near Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea as Chinese and Philippine ships collided in a disputed area claimed by both nations. China’s coast guard accused a Philippine vessel of deliberately ramming its ship, while Manila denied the claim, stating that Chinese forces used powerful water cannons that damaged the Filipino vessel and injured a crew member. A Chinese statement said over 10 Philippine government ships entered the waters, prompting the use of water cannons. The clash occurred shortly after China announced plans to designate part of the shoal as a national nature reserve, which the Philippines protested.
The Philippine coast guard reported, “Two Chinese coast guard ships hit a Filipino fisheries vessel, the BRP Datu Gumbay Piang, with powerful water cannons for nearly 30 minutes ‘resulting in significant damage,’ including in the captain’s cabin and the bridge.” A Chinese navy warship also broadcast a live-fire exercise notice, causing panic among local fishermen.
The U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio called the action “yet another coercive move to advance sweeping territorial and maritime claims in the South China Sea at the expense of its neighbors.” The U.K., Australia, and Canada also expressed concern over China’s actions.