Notizie.it editorial team An episode of growing tension between China e Philippines took place in South China Sea, when a Chinese warship collided with a Philippine Coast Guard vessel during a patrolling operation. This clash occurred as Chinese authorities attempted to push Philippine vessels away from the contested area of Scarborough Shoal.
According to reports from Manila, the Chinese vessel made a risky maneuver, resulting in a collision that caused significant damage.
Details of the accident
The conflict at sea erupted on Monday, when the Philippine vessels were intercepted by the Chinese coast guard. Beijing described the operation as "professional and legitimate," while Manila confirmed the collision between the vessel. CCG 3104 of the Chinese Coast Guard and the BRP Suluan of the Philippines. The spokesman for the Philippine forces, Commodore Jay Tarriela, said the Chinese vessel, at high speed, conducted a maneuver from the starboard side of the BRP Suluan, causing it to impact with a Chinese warship. PLA (People's Liberation Army).
"This caused substantial damage to the bow of the CCG vessel, rendering it unseaworthy," Tarriela added. During the confrontation, the BRP Suluan was also targeted by a water cannon fired by the Chinese Coast Guard, but managed to avoid the attack. The question is: what will be the consequences of this clash? Tensions appear set to escalate further.
Manila and Beijing's reactions
The reaction of the Philippine presidency was immediate. The president Ferdinand Marcos Jr. He confirmed that Philippine patrol vessels will continue to operate in the area to defend the Philippines' sovereign rights over the territory. "Our ships will always be present," he said. Scarborough Shoal, an area of rocks and reefs, has been a center of tension since 2012, when China seized control of the area.
In response, China accused Manila of "playing with fire" following Marcos's comments regarding the inevitability of Philippine involvement in a conflict between China and Taiwan. The president made it clear that his intention was to emphasize how the conflict over Taiwan could drag the Philippines into a greater crisis. But how will this delicate situation be resolved?
Context of maritime tensions
This clash is part of a series of confrontations between the two nations in the crowded South China Sea, where several nations, including Vietnam , Malaysia e Brunei, claim rights to part of the disputed waters. Despite an international ruling denying the validity of China's claims, Beijing continues to assert its near-total control of the region, regularly engaging Philippine patrol vessels. This is why the international community is keeping a close eye on every development.
Tensions remain high, with the risk that further incidents could lead to conflict escalation. International authorities and peace organizations are monitoring the situation closely, fearing it could have broader repercussions on stability in the Asian region. What will happen in the coming days? Only time will tell.