Philippine Fisheries Plane Targeted by Chinese Flares Amid South China Sea Tensions

A Philippine fisheries plane encountered flares fired from a Chinese island base during a routine patrol in the South China Sea, escalating the territorial conflict between Beijing and Manila. The Cessna 208B Grand Caravan plane sighted the flares near Subi Reef, raising concerns over regional security and prompting diplomatic protests from the Philippines.

A Philippine fisheries bureau plane faced a perilous situation when flares were fired from a Chinese island base during a routine patrol in the South China Sea, according to officials on Saturday.

This incident is the latest in a series of territorial disputes between Beijing and Manila over one of the world's busiest trade routes. Confrontations have extended from maritime disputes to the airspace above these contested waters.

The Cessna 208B Grand Caravan plane, operated by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, was patrolling near Subi Reef when it observed flares emanating from the island, which China has transformed into a militarized base, a Philippine task force reported. Specifics about the distance of the flares or whether the patrol continued were not disclosed.

Previously, on August 19, the same plane experienced "harassment" when a Chinese air force jet engaged in aggressive maneuvers and deployed flares dangerously close to it near Scarborough Shoal. The task force, which includes defense and coast guard agencies, condemned the actions as hazardous and unprovoked.

Chinese officials have yet to respond but typically accuse Philippine assets of intruding into Chinese territory. The Philippines has called for China to halt provocative and dangerous actions, highlighting the risks to regional peace and security.

(With inputs from agencies.)