Overview

• Manila released video showing China Coast Guard cutter CCG 3104 ramming into PLA Navy destroyer hull 164 during a high-speed chase of the Philippine patrol boat BRP Suluan near Scarborough Shoal.
• Philippine coast guard spokesman Jay Tarriela said CCG 3104’s risky starboard maneuver left its forecastle crumpled and unseaworthy and that Manila’s offer of assistance was not accepted.
• China’s coast guard acknowledged a maritime confrontation and described its actions as legal blocking measures but did not confirm the collision in its statement.
• Analysts warn the incident marks a rare instance of direct PLA Navy involvement in enforcing Beijing’s claims and raises the risk of accidental escalation between China and the Philippines.
• President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. reaffirmed that Philippine patrol and resupply missions will continue to assert Manila’s sovereign rights in the disputed waters despite rising tensions.