Manila, Philippines – A violent confrontation erupted in the South China Sea on June 17 between Filipino sailors and the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG). The incident occurred when the CCG allegedly attacked a Philippine marine vessel with bladed weapons, escalating tensions in the region.
The clash took place as Philippine forces sought to resupply marines stationed on the BRP Sierra Madre (LS57) at Ayungin Shoal. This action occurred amidst China’s increasing efforts to assert its claims over the disputed area in the South China Sea.
Footage released by the Philippine military showed Chinese sailors in small boats shouting, wielding weapons, and using sticks to hit an inflatable boat. The Armed Forces of the Philippines described the CCG’s actions as a “brazen act of aggression” aimed at obstructing critical humanitarian operations.
Despite facing harassment and overwhelming numbers from the Chinese Coast Guard, Filipino troops bravely defended their position. General Romeo Brawner, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces Philippines, accused the CCG of behaving like pirates, condemning their aggressive tactics.
General Brawner emphasized the courage and determination of Filipino sailors, noting that they fought back against the CCG’s unexpected use of bladed weapons. In the midst of the confrontation, a Filipino sailor lost a thumb, while Chinese forces reportedly confiscated or destroyed Philippine equipment, including firearms.
Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian dismissed Manila’s accusations as “totally bogus” and shifted blame onto the Philippines for escalating tensions. He claimed that the Philippines had provoked the confrontation by ramming Chinese boats, further fueling the diplomatic dispute between the two nations.
The clash in the South China Sea highlights the ongoing territorial disputes in the region, as countries vie for control over strategic waterways. The Philippines continues to assert its sovereignty while facing challenges from China’s assertive maritime presence in the area, raising concerns about potential future confrontations.