Tensions escalated in the South China Sea as Chinese coast guard vessels, supported by navy ships, used water cannons and obstructed a Philippine patrol near the disputed Scarborough Shoal, Philippine officials reported on Wednesday.
U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines, MaryKay Carlson, denounced China’s actions, calling them “unlawful” and “dangerous.” In a social media statement, she accused Beijing of endangering lives and disrupting a Philippine maritime operation.
“We condemn these actions and stand with our like-minded friends, partners, and allies in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific,” Carlson stated.
The incident highlights the longstanding territorial disputes in the South China Sea, where China’s extensive claims overlap with the exclusive economic zones and territorial waters of the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan. Despite an international arbitration ruling in 2016 invalidating China’s claims around the Scarborough Shoal, Beijing has continued to assert its dominance.
During the recent confrontation, three Philippine vessels on a routine patrol to safeguard local fishermen were intercepted by Chinese coast guard and navy ships. According to the Philippine coast guard, the Chinese forces carried out “aggressive actions,” including blocking and firing powerful water cannons at the patrol craft.
China’s coast guard spokesperson, Liu Dejun, alleged that the Philippine ships “dangerously approached” Chinese patrol vessels, forcing Beijing’s forces to “exercise control” near the Scarborough Shoal, referred to as Huangyan Island by China.
“We warn the Philippines to immediately stop infringement, provocation, and propaganda, or it will bear all consequences,” Liu stated.
The U.S., while not laying any territorial claims in the South China Sea, has emphasized freedom of navigation and the peaceful resolution of disputes as central to its regional interests. As a treaty ally, the U.S. has pledged to defend the Philippines if its forces are attacked in the contested waters.
This latest clash underscores the increasing friction in the region, as Beijing’s assertiveness challenges the sovereignty of its neighbors, heightening the rivalry between China and the U.S. over strategic dominance in the Indo-Pacific.
