Philippines Protests 'Aggressive' Actions by Chinese Coast Guard

The Philippines reported that two of its coast guard vessels were aggressively maneuvered upon by Chinese ships in the West Philippine Sea, sparking renewed tensions. Despite Beijing's denials, Manila remains committed to its maritime missions amidst ongoing territorial disputes.

The Philippines has alleged that Chinese coast guard vessels engaged in aggressive maneuvers against two of its coast guard ships in the West Philippine Sea, local media reported on Monday. National Security Council spokesperson Jonathan Malaya informed the Philippine Inquirer of the incident involving the ships BRP Cape Engano and BRP Bacagay at the Escoda (Sabina) Shoal.

According to Malaya, the Philippine ships were delivering supplies to Lawak and Patag islands early Monday morning when a Chinese coast guard vessel acted aggressively toward them. Malaya stated, 'Despite these incidents, both Philippine Coast Guard vessels remain committed to, and shall proceed with, their mission of delivering essential supplies to personnel stationed on Lawak and Patag islands.'

In response, China claimed that the Philippine coast guard ships ignored multiple warnings and navigated dangerously close to a Chinese vessel on maritime patrol. Xinhua reported that a Philippine ship caused an impact with a Chinese vessel near Xianbin Jiao and later intruded into Ren'ai Jiao waters. The area, known as the Spratlys, is disputed by multiple nations including China, the Philippines, Taiwan, and Vietnam.

(With inputs from agencies.)