Chinese Navy, Coast Guard Ships Collide East Panatag Shoal During Philippine Vessel Pursuit

A collision occurred between two Chinese vessels—a China Coast Guard ship and a People's Liberation Army Navy warship—while the coast guard ship was chasing a Philippine Coast Guard vessel near Panatag Shoal in the South China Sea. The incident happened about 10.5 nautical miles east of Bajo de Masinloc, causing significant damage to the China Coast Guard vessel and rendering it unseaworthy. This confrontation took place during a Philippine Coast Guard operation escorting Filipino fishing boats, which also faced aggressive maneuvers and water cannon attacks from Chinese vessels. Despite the aggression, the Philippine Coast Guard safely escorted the fishermen to a secure location and provided aid to the injured Chinese crew members involved in the collision. The PCG reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding maritime operations in the area amid ongoing tensions. The incident highlights the continuing friction and risky maneuvers between Chinese and Philippine vessels in contested waters.