10-11-2023 (MANILA) Tensions flared in the disputed South China Sea as the Philippines accused the Chinese coast guard of engaging in “dangerous harassment” against Filipino boats, including firing a water cannon and obstructing vessels on a resupply mission. The incident occurred during a Philippine mission to deliver provisions to the Second Thomas Shoal, a contested area in the Spratly Islands, and a longstanding flashpoint between the two nations.
China has consistently deployed coast guard and other vessels to patrol the contested region, asserting its claim to almost the entire South China Sea. Manila reported that the Chinese coast guard, along with other vessels, engaged in “reckless harassment” and executed dangerous maneuvers to obstruct Friday’s resupply mission, targeting two Filipino supply boats.
The National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea stated that a Chinese coast guard vessel fired a water cannon at one of the supply boats, and the mission faced “extremely reckless and dangerous harassment at close proximity.” Despite the challenges, the Philippine vessels successfully delivered their cargo.
China countered the accusations, asserting that it “took control measures” against two Philippine transport boats and three coast guard vessels it claimed were in Chinese waters. China Coast Guard spokesperson Gan Yu said, “The Philippines’ actions infringe on China’s territorial sovereignty,” urging an immediate halt to what they considered “infringing actions.”
Second Thomas Shoal, located about 200km from the western Philippine island of Palawan and over 1,000km from China’s nearest major landmass, Hainan Island, has been a focal point of territorial disputes. Filipino troops stationed on the BRP Sierra Madre, grounded on the reef in 1999, rely on resupply missions for their survival.
The Philippine National Task Force lodged a protest with the Chinese foreign ministry, expressing concern over the incident that “put the lives of our people at risk.” The statement questioned the sincerity of China’s calls for peaceful dialogue in light of its “illegal and irresponsible actions.”
This incident follows clashes nearly three weeks ago during another resupply mission to the BRP Sierra Madre, where Chinese and Philippine vessels collided, leading to mutual blame. Analysts view these confrontations as potential precursors to armed conflict, with both sides testing the response of the United States, a rival to Beijing.
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos has publicly criticized Chinese actions in the South China Sea, seeking stronger security ties with Japan and the United States in response to Chinese activities. Despite a 2016 ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague rejecting China’s claims, Beijing has continued to assert control over the South China Sea, escalating tensions in the region.
