Tensions in the South China Sea have escalated following a series of confrontations between Philippine and Chinese vessels, prompting accusations and counter-accusations from both sides, Bloomberg reports.
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) reported “aggressive actions” by Chinese vessels during a routine patrol near the Scarborough Shoal on Wednesday. PCG spokesperson Jay Tarriela stated that a China Coast Guard (CCG) vessel deployed water cannons twice against a Philippine government ship and also “intentionally sideswiped” it.
Further incidents occurred at Sabina Shoal, another contested area in the South China Sea. According to Alexander Lopez, spokesperson for the National Maritime Council, Philippine coast guard and fisheries vessels responding to reports of harassment against Filipino fishermen were subjected to “dangerous maneuvers and intentional ramming” by Chinese boats, resulting in damage to a fisheries bureau vessel.
Earlier this week, the Philippines also accused China of using a Navy helicopter to harass Filipino fishing boats near Iroquois Reef.
China, however, has rejected the Philippine accusations. In a statement cited by CCTV, China Coast Guard spokesperson Liu Dejun accused Philippine coast guard ships of “deliberately colliding” with Chinese vessels. Liu claimed that China implemented control measures after the Philippine ships “dangerously approached” their patrol vessels, effectively blaming Manila for the escalating situation.
