Chinese Vessels Collide in South China Sea

Two Chinese vessels, a Coast Guard ship and a military warship, collided in the South China Sea while pursuing a Philippine Coast Guard vessel. The incident occurred near the disputed Scarborough Reef, where Chinese vessels had been obstructing Filipino patrols. The collision, which caused significant damage to the Coast Guard ship’s bow, is the first known such incident between Chinese vessels in the region. The Philippines condemned China’s actions, stressing the need for adherence to international maritime laws. Both countries claim sovereignty over the resource-rich South China Sea.