Tensions Escalate in South China Sea: Philippines vs. China

The Philippines accused Chinese vessels of blocking a ship supplying provisions to Filipino fishermen in the South China Sea. The incident involved aggressive maneuvers by Chinese ships, leading to a standoff. China's Coast Guard claimed the Philippine vessel entered its waters illegally and approached Chinese ships dangerously.

On Sunday, the Philippines accused Chinese vessels of blocking a supply ship transporting provisions to Filipino fishermen in the South China Sea. According to Manila's South China Sea task force, Chinese ships engaged in 'aggressive and dangerous' maneuvers, including ramming the ship and using water cannons.

The Philippines' Bureau of Fisheries vessel 'was targeted by the People's Liberation Army Navy ship and multiple China Coast Guard ships, which attempted to encircle and block the humanitarian mission,' a statement from the task force indicated.

In response, China's Coast Guard announced it had taken 'control measures' against the Philippine vessel, accusing it of illegally entering waters near the Sabina shoal and approaching Chinese ships in a hazardous manner.

(With inputs from agencies.)