Philippine and Chinese vessels collide in South China Sea
- Philippine and Chinese ships collided near a disputed reef in the South China Sea.
- The Philippines blamed the collision on dangerous maneuvers by the Chinese vessel.
- Tensions rise as both sides accuse each other of causing the collision.
A recent collision between coastguard ships from China and the Philippines has intensified tensions in the South China Sea, particularly near the disputed Sabina Shoal in the Spratly Islands. Philippine officials have accused the Chinese coastguard of engaging in "dangerous manoeuvres," resulting in significant damage to two Philippine vessels, the BRP Bagacay and BRP Cape Engano. Conversely, China has claimed that the Philippines deliberately crashed into its ship, with no injuries reported from either side. Commodore Jay Tarriela of the Philippine coastguard described the incident as the most severe structural damage incurred due to Chinese actions, emphasizing the Philippines' commitment to safeguarding its national interests. Meanwhile, Chinese coastguard spokesman Gan Yu asserted that the Philippine vessels were responsible for the collision, alleging that they ignored warnings and entered disputed waters near the Second Thomas Shoal. The incident marks a troubling escalation in a series of confrontations between the two nations, particularly as both have stationed coastguard vessels in the area. The Philippines has expressed concerns that China may be preparing to construct an artificial island at Sabina Shoal, further complicating the territorial disputes. Analysts suggest that China's actions may be aimed at extending its influence in the region, reminiscent of its 2012 takeover of Scarborough Shoal. This collision comes shortly after an agreement between China and the Philippines aimed at reducing tensions in the South China Sea, highlighting the ongoing volatility in the region.