Footage released by Manila showed the Chinese coast guard vessel firing water cannons at the Philippine boat before abruptly turning and striking a larger Chinese warship. Tarriela stated that the impact rendered the warship “unseaworthy” and reiterated calls for China to respect international maritime conventions. The Chinese coast guard confirmed a confrontation occurred but did not acknowledge the collision, insisting it acted “in accordance with the law” to drive Philippine vessels away.

The Scarborough Shoal, a chain of reefs and rocks seized by China in 2012, has been a persistent flashpoint between Beijing and Manila. Previous confrontations in the area have involved aggressive tactics, including the use of water cannons, ramming, and even bladed weapons. In June 2024, Filipino troops clashed barehanded with Chinese personnel armed with swords, spears, and knives, resulting in serious injuries.

Regional Dispute And Reactions

The South China Sea remains a highly contested maritime region, with overlapping claims from China, the Philippines, and several other nations. The Philippines has consistently accused China of unsafe conduct at sea, warning that reckless maneuvers could spark severe accidents. Beijing, in turn, maintains that Philippine vessels are intruding into what it considers its sovereign waters.

The latest collision underscores the heightened tensions and the risk of escalation in the disputed waters, as both nations continue to enforce their competing claims through increasingly aggressive maritime operations.