Dramatic Collision: Chinese Ships Crash Chasing Philippine Boat in Disputed South China Sea
Dramatic Collision: Chinese Ships Crash Chasing Philippine Boat in Disputed South China Sea
A high-speed pursuit in the contested South China Sea culminated in a dramatic collision on Monday, August 11, when a Chinese navy warship reportedly struck a Chinese coast guard vessel. The incident occurred near the Scarborough Shoal as the Chinese vessels were aggressively chasing a Philippine patrol boat.
Video footage released by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) spokesperson Jay Tarriela shows a Chinese coast guard vessel tailing the Filipino boat before a Chinese navy warship unexpectedly cut in front, leading to the collision. The PCG stated that the Chinese coast guard “performed a risky maneuver,” causing “substantial damage” to its own vessel, while the Filipino boat, part of a mission to resupply local fishermen, continued its course.
Manila officials have urged Beijing to respect international maritime safety rules following the incident. While the Philippine Coast Guard immediately offered assistance to the Chinese crew, China’s Coast Guard spokesperson, Gan Yu, blamed Philippine vessels for intruding and disregarding warnings, without specifically acknowledging the collision.
This latest event further escalates tensions in the hotly disputed South China Sea, where China has a history of aggressive maneuvers against Philippine vessels, including ramming and water cannon incidents.
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