19-8-2024 (BEIJING) China’s Coast Guard has accused a Philippine vessel of deliberately colliding with a Chinese ship in what it termed an “unprofessional and dangerous” manoeuvre. The incident, which occurred on 19 August, marks the latest in a series of confrontations between the two nations over territorial claims in the region.
According to statements released by China’s maritime security, the Philippine vessel ignored repeated warnings before the collision. The Coast Guard further alleged that the same vessel subsequently attempted to enter waters near Second Thomas Shoal after being prevented from accessing Sabina Shoal.
Gan Yu, spokesman for China’s Coast Guard, provided additional details, claiming that two Philippine Coast Guard vessels had “illegally intruded” into waters adjacent to Sabina Shoal without permission in the early hours of 19 August. Gan accused the Philippines of repeatedly provoking and causing trouble, violating what he described as “temporary arrangements” between China and the Philippines.
The Chinese Coast Guard asserted that it had taken “control measures” against the Philippine ships in accordance with the law during the incidents. It issued a stern warning to the Philippines to “immediately stop infringement and provocation” or “bear all consequences”.
This latest confrontation comes despite a “provisional agreement” reached between China and the Philippines in July, following repeated altercations near the Second Thomas Shoal. China has faced sharp criticism from Western nations for its aggressive tactics in blocking Philippine efforts to resupply troops aboard a navy ship intentionally grounded 25 years ago.
The incident underscores the ongoing territorial disputes in the South China Sea, with China claiming almost the entire body of water, including both Sabina and Second Thomas Shoals. This claim persists despite a 2016 ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague, which declared that China’s expansive claims had no basis under international law.
