In a serious escalation of tensions, Philippine ships collided with Chinese vessels early Monday near a disputed reef in the South China Sea, causing significant damage to the Filipino ships, according to the Philippine Coast Guard.
The incident occurred near the Sabina Shoal, located 140 kilometers west of the Philippine island of Palawan. This area has been a hotspot for confrontations between China and the Philippines, as Beijing continues to assert its claims over nearly the entire South China Sea, despite an international tribunal ruling against these claims.
Philippine officials reported that their coast guard ship, BRP Bagacay, sustained a large hole in its hull and additional damage after being struck twice by a Chinese vessel. Another Filipino ship, BRP Engano, was also damaged, suffering a 1.1-meter hole on its side and harm to its engine exhaust.
The Chinese Coast Guard, however, accused the Philippine ships of acting recklessly and causing the collision. China’s Foreign Ministry further claimed that the Filipino vessels violated China’s sovereignty.
Manila’s National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea criticized the Chinese vessels for their “unlawful and aggressive maneuvers.” Despite the damage, the Filipino crews were unharmed and continued their mission to resupply Philippine outposts in the Spratly Islands.
The ongoing clashes in the South China Sea, including this latest incident, have raised concerns about potential conflicts involving Manila’s ally, the United States. Analysts suggest that Beijing’s actions aim to expand its control over the region, further encroaching on the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone.