Philippines Accuses China of Ramming Coast Guard Vessel in South China Sea

The Philippine Coast Guard on Thursday accused a Chinese ship of ramming one of its government vessels in the South China Sea, describing the incident as part of a pattern of dangerous military manoeuvres near Palawan province, according to a report by Al Jazeera.

Philippine officials said the collision occurred as Chinese vessels attempted to block or intercept a Philippine ship operating in contested waters, an area where Beijing and Manila have long disputed maritime claims.

The Philippine Coast Guard characterised the manoeuvre as reckless and said it endangered the safety of the crew aboard the government vessel, though it did not immediately report any injuries.

China has not yet issued a public response to the specific allegations reported by Al Jazeera. Beijing has previously defended similar actions in the region as lawful enforcement within waters it claims as its own territory.

The South China Sea remains one of the most contested maritime areas in the world, with the Philippines, China, Vietnam and other regional states asserting overlapping claims. Manila has repeatedly accused Chinese vessels of aggressive tactics, including water cannon use, blocking manoeuvres and near-collisions, particularly around shoals and reefs close to Palawan.

The latest incident adds to a series of confrontations between Philippine and Chinese vessels in recent years, as both countries continue to assert their respective positions in the disputed waters.