China-Philippines Sea Dispute Escalates with Weekend Clashes

Chinese and Philippine vessels engaged in significant clashes over the weekend in the South China Sea, escalating the already tense territorial dispute between the two nations.
A civilian-led 'Christmas convoy' from the Philippines was forced to cut short its mission to deliver supplies to disputed territories in the South China Sea due to alleged interference by Chinese forces.
Chinese coast guard vessels were caught on video blasting the Philippine vessels with water cannons, damaging radar monitoring equipment and causing some crew members 'severe temporary discomfort'.
Despite the interference, one ship in the convoy, the M/V Chowee, managed to evade China's maritime forces and delivered cargo at Lawak Island.
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. declared that the 'aggression and provocations' by the China Coast Guard and their Chinese Maritime Militia have only further steeled the Philippines' determination to defend and protect its sovereignty in the West Philippine Sea.