China Coast Guard vessels have driven away a Philippine coast guard ship following what authorities described as "provocative maneuvers" near Huangyan Dao in the South China Sea. The incident, which occurred on Sunday and Monday, underscores rising regional tensions over maritime claims.
According to Chinese coast guard officials, the Philippine vessel 4409 executed abrupt reversals and crossed within meters of the Chinese ship Chuanshan, risking collision and disrupting patrol activities. On Sunday, the Philippine ship allegedly navigated within 2 meters of the Chinese vessel, prompting verbal warnings and defensive maneuvers. China Coast Guard stated its crew responded "professionally" to de-escalate the situation.
Authorities said the Chuanshan accelerated to block the Philippine vessel\u2019s path, compelling it to retreat. By Monday morning, the ship was fully expelled from the area. China Coast Guard reiterated its commitment to uphold sovereignty and counter "infringements" in disputed waters.
Huangyan Dao, known internationally as Scarborough Shoal, remains a focal point in broader geopolitical disputes. Analysts suggest such encounters highlight the delicate balance between regional claimants and global stakeholders invested in Asia\u2019s strategic waterways.
