The Philippines has accused Chinese coastguard vessels of engaging in “aggressive and dangerous” behavior during a confrontation in the South China Sea, further escalating tensions in one of the world’s most volatile maritime flashpoints. The incident, which occurred over the weekend near the Second Thomas Shoal, involved Chinese ships allegedly blocking and using water cannons against Philippine vessels attempting a resupply mission.
According to the Philippine military, the confrontation endangered the lives of Filipino crew members and was a blatant violation of international law. The Philippine National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea condemned China’s actions, describing them as “harassment and interference in legitimate operations” within the country’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
“This is yet another act of Chinese aggression that undermines peace and stability in the region,” said Armed Forces of the Philippines spokesperson Colonel Xerxes Trinidad. “We will not be deterred by these tactics and will continue to assert our sovereignty.”
Video footage released by the Philippine military appeared to show Chinese vessels blocking the path of Philippine boats and firing water cannons at them in open waters. No injuries were reported, but at least one of the Philippine boats sustained damage.
China’s Foreign Ministry defended its actions, claiming the Philippine vessels “illegally entered” waters under Beijing’s jurisdiction. A spokesperson accused Manila of “provocative behavior” and insisted the Chinese coastguard acted in accordance with the law to safeguard national sovereignty.
Beijing claims nearly the entire South China Sea under its so-called “nine-dash line,” a claim rejected by a 2016 ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague, which found that China’s claims had no legal basis. The Philippines and other Southeast Asian nations, including Vietnam and Malaysia, also have overlapping claims in the resource-rich region.
The U.S. State Department issued a statement expressing “serious concern” over the latest incident and reiterated its mutual defense commitments under the 1951 U.S.-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty. “We stand with our Philippine allies against any threats to their lawful maritime operations,” the statement read.
Tensions between Manila and Beijing have intensified in recent months as the Philippines, under President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., has taken a firmer stance on asserting its maritime rights. Marcos has strengthened military ties with the United States and allowed greater American military access to bases across the country—a move that has drawn condemnation from China.
The incident has triggered calls within the Philippines for a stronger response. Senator Risa Hontiveros called for the expulsion of Chinese diplomats involved in the incident and urged ASEAN to take a unified stand against Chinese encroachment. “Enough is enough. China must be held accountable for its continued bullying,” she said.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs has said it will file a formal diplomatic protest and is consulting with allies and regional partners on the next steps. “We will exhaust all legal and diplomatic channels to ensure the safety of our people and the integrity of our territorial waters,” a spokesperson said.
With tensions mounting and no signs of de-escalation, analysts warn that the South China Sea remains a potential flashpoint for broader conflict, especially as U.S. and allied naval forces increase their presence in response to Chinese assertiveness.
“This incident reflects a dangerous pattern of behavior that could lead to unintended escalation,” said Greg Poling, director of the Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative. “The risks are growing, and without sustained diplomatic pressure, this situation could spiral further out of control.”
For now, the Philippines insists it will continue its patrols and resupply missions despite the risks. “We will not be intimidated,” said Colonel Trinidad. “The West Philippine Sea belongs to Filipinos, and we will defend it.”
Source: BBC News
