Once again, Chinese and Philippine vessels have collided near a disputed shoal in the South China Sea, showing ongoing maritime tensions between the two countries.
Both governments issued statements about the incident, with the Philippines blaming the China Coast Guard (CCG) for ramming and using water cannons on the BRP Datu Sanday, a vessel carrying supplies to Filipino fishermen at Sabina Shoal.
The Philippine government task force stated that the CCG vessels made dangerous maneuvers, resulting in collisions and the use of water cannons on the BFAR vessel. Videos of the incident were also released to the public.
China, claiming most of the Spratly Islands, accused the Philippine vessel of provoking the incident. The CCG spokesperson warned the Philippines to stop the infringement or face consequences.
The Philippines refuted claims made by Chinese media that the CCG rescued crew members from the Philippine vessel. This clash at Sabina Shoal is the second since tensions at Second Thomas Shoal were managed last month.
Despite promises to restore trust, recent clashes suggest ongoing tensions between China and the Philippines in the South China Sea.