Chinese and Philippine ships nearly collided in South China Sea days ago in yet another sign of continued tensions over contested waters, according to a report by the Southeast Asian nation.
(Bloomberg) — Chinese and Philippine ships nearly collided in South China Sea days ago in yet another sign of continued tensions over contested waters, according to a report by the Southeast Asian nation.
In the vicinity of Ayungin shoal on April 23, two Chinese coast guard vessels blocked patrolling Philippine counterparts and “exhibited aggressive tactics,” according to a Philippine coast guard statement Friday.
A Chinese vessel carried out “dangerous maneuvers,” putting the ships 50 yards from each other, the Philippines said. “This close proximity posed a significant threat to the safety and security of the Philippine vessel and its crew,” it said.
The incidents happened as the US and the Philippines conduct their largest joint military exercises that’s ending on Friday.
US, Philippines Display Ties Near Waters Disputed With China (1)
Around a hundred Chinese maritime militia vessels are in the vicinity of Julian Felipe Reef at the same time, according to a report by Philippine state television. It also showed coast guard personnel from both countries exchanging radio challenges and asking each other to leave the disputed waters.
The two nations have been locked in a territorial dispute in the resource-rich waters, with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s government ramping up protests over Beijing’s actions. China has maintained that its presence in the area is legitimate, even after an international tribunal dashed its expansive sea claims in 2016.
More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com
©2023 Bloomberg L.P.