Overview

• Chinese and Philippine vessels have collided multiple times near Sabina Shoal, escalating tensions in the South China Sea.
• The US has reiterated its commitment to defend the Philippines under the 1951 Mutual Defence Treaty.
• Analysts advise Manila to pursue diplomatic and strategic collaborations rather than invoking the defense treaty immediately.
• China's aggressive tactics include deploying a large coast guard ship and blocking Philippine resupply missions.
• Both nations are closely monitoring potential US involvement in the conflict.