Manila, Philippines — A Chinese navy ship collided with a vessel from China’s coast guard while pursuing a Philippine patrol boat near the disputed Scarborough Shoal, Philippine officials confirmed on Monday. Dramatic footage released by Manila captured the moment of impact, underscoring rising tensions in the strategically vital waterway.
The incident occurred as the Philippine coast guard escorted aid boats delivering supplies to local fishermen, according to Commodore Jay Tarriela, spokesperson for the Philippine Coast Guard. Video evidence shows a China Coast Guard ship, identified as CCG 3104, and a larger Chinese naval vessel bearing the hull number 164, crashing together amid a high-speed chase.
“The China Coast Guard vessel, in pursuit of the BRP Suluan, executed a risky maneuver which led to a collision with the People’s Liberation Army Navy warship,” Tarriela said. The collision caused severe damage to the forecastle of the coast guard vessel, rendering it unfit for further operation.
The Chinese embassy in Manila did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
The Scarborough Shoal remains a contentious flashpoint between China and the Philippines. Despite an international tribunal ruling against Beijing’s expansive claims, China continues to assert near-total control over the South China Sea, a crucial artery for over 60 percent of global maritime trade.
Tarriela noted that during the encounter, the Philippine vessel was targeted with a water cannon by Chinese forces but managed to evade successfully. Filipino offers of assistance to the damaged Chinese coast guard vessel went unanswered.
No injuries have been reported so far in the confrontation.
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