Summary
A Chinese ship and a Philippine vessel were involved in an incident near contested islands in the South China Sea. The Philippines accused China of ramming and using a water cannon against its ship, while China claimed the Filipino ships illegally entered their waters.
Key Facts
- The incident took place near Thitu Island in the Spratly Islands, an area claimed by both China and the Philippines.
- The Philippine coast guard reported that a Chinese ship used a water cannon and collided with their vessel, BRP Datu Pagbuaya.
- The clash resulted in minor damage to the Philippine ship, but there were no injuries.
- China insists the Philippine ships were illegally in their waters and says they were lawfully expelled.
- The Spratly Islands are a highly contested area in the South China Sea, a significant international trade route.
- A 2016 international ruling rejected China's claims over the majority of the South China Sea, but China did not accept the ruling.
- Video footage of the incident, shared by the Philippine coast guard, shows a Chinese vessel close to a Philippine ship and a water cannon being used.
- The Philippines maintains its resolve to support its fishermen despite China's aggressive actions.
