Summary
The Philippines accused China of intentionally hitting a Philippine government vessel in the South China Sea, causing minor damage. China blamed the Philippines, saying the Philippine vessel dangerously approached its ship. No injuries were reported, but tensions between the two countries remain high over territorial disputes in the area.
Key Facts
- The Philippines claims China hit its government ship on purpose near an island in the South China Sea.
- China says the incident happened because the Philippine ship got too close to theirs.
- The collision resulted in minor damage, with no injuries to crew members.
- This incident happened near Thitu Island, known as Pag-asa in the Philippines.
- The South China Sea is a disputed region, with China claiming almost all of it, though a tribunal ruled these claims have no legal basis.
- The Philippines says China’s actions are aggressive, including using a water cannon on a Philippine vessel.
- Chinese authorities deny wrongdoing and claim the Philippines ignored warnings.
- The incident adds to ongoing tensions between the Philippines and China in the region.
