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2h ago

Philippines Says Chinese Coast Guard Water-Cannoned, Rammed Fisheries Ship Near Thitu Island

Manila is preparing a diplomatic protest, citing video evidence of the encounter.

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An aerial view shows the Philippine-occupied Thitu Island, locally known as Pag-asa, in the contested Spratly Islands, South China Sea, March 9, 2023. REUTERS/Eloisa Lopez
An aerial view of a China Coast Guard ship navigating near the disputed Scarborough Shoal, in the South China Sea, August 13, 2025. REUTERS/Adrian Portugal/File Photo
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Overview

  • The Philippine Coast Guard reported that a China Coast Guard vessel hit the BRP Datu Pagbuaya with a water cannon and then rammed its stern near Thitu (Pag-asa) Island on Oct. 12.
  • Officials said the Filipino crew sustained no injuries, though the fisheries vessel incurred minor structural damage, and released photos and video of the incident.
  • Manila said its three government vessels were anchored to support local fishermen when Chinese ships approached, and vowed to continue protective patrols.
  • China’s coast guard asserted the Philippine ships illegally entered waters near Sandy Cay, described its actions as lawful control measures, and blamed Manila for the collision.
  • The Philippines’ National Maritime Council condemned the encounter and will file a protest, while U.S. Ambassador MaryKay Carlson labeled the ramming and water-cannon use dangerous, underscoring a pattern of confrontations despite a 2016 ruling against China’s expansive claims.