Philippines Accuses China of Ramming Government Vessel in South China Sea
MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine government has accused China of deliberately ramming a Philippine coastguard vessel on Sunday, October 12, 2025, causing minor damage near an island in the disputed South China Sea.
According to eyewitnesses and images provided by the Philippine coastguard, a Chinese vessel fired a water cannon at the Philippine ship BRP Datu Pagbuaya as it approached the area. The incident occurred around 10:00 AM local time near the Scarborough Shoal, a strategic location claimed by both countries.
"We condemn in the strongest terms this reckless and provocative act by China," said Admiral Robert Empedrad, commander of the Philippine coastguard. "Our vessel was simply conducting routine operations when it was attacked without provocation."
China's Foreign Ministry responded to the allegations, stating that the Philippine ship had approached its vessel too closely, causing a collision. However, the Philippine government maintains that the Chinese vessel deliberately rammed their ship.
The incident is the latest in a series of confrontations between Philippine and Chinese vessels in the South China Sea, which Beijing claims nearly in its entirety. A 2016 ruling by a United Nations-backed tribunal invalidated China's claims, stating they have no legal basis under international law.
"This incident highlights the need for China to respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of other nations," said Senator Leila de Lima, chairperson of the Philippine Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs. "We urge China to exercise restraint and adhere to international norms."
The South China Sea is a critical waterway, with significant economic and strategic importance. The Philippines has long been concerned about China's aggressive expansion in the region.
"We will continue to assert our rights and interests in the South China Sea," said President Rodrigo Duterte in a statement. "We call on China to respect our sovereignty and territorial integrity."
The incident is currently under investigation by both countries, with the Philippine government vowing to take necessary measures to protect its vessels and personnel.
Background:
The Scarborough Shoal is a disputed territory claimed by both the Philippines and China. The shoal is located about 124 nautical miles west of Subic Bay in Zambales province, Philippines.
In 2012, Chinese ships occupied the shoal, sparking a standoff between Philippine and Chinese vessels. The incident led to a diplomatic row between the two countries.
Implications:
The incident has raised concerns about the escalating tensions between the Philippines and China in the South China Sea. It also highlights the need for both countries to respect international law and norms.
"The incident is a stark reminder of the risks of miscalculation and escalation in the South China Sea," said Dr. Jay Batongbacal, director of the University of the Philippines' Institute for Maritime Affairs and Law of the Sea. "We urge both countries to exercise restraint and engage in diplomatic efforts to resolve their differences peacefully."
Next Developments:
The incident is expected to be discussed at an upcoming meeting between Philippine and Chinese officials. The Philippine government has vowed to take necessary measures to protect its vessels and personnel.
In a statement, the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs said it would "continue to assert our rights and interests in the South China Sea" and "urge China to respect our sovereignty and territorial integrity."
*Reporting by Aljazeera.*
