Chinese and Philippine coast guard ships collided at sea near Sabina Shoal, a disputed atoll in the Spratly Islands, leading to damage on at least two boats. China accused the Philippines of intentionally crashing into one of its ships, while the Philippines claimed that the Chinese vessels made aggressive maneuvers that resulted in the collisions. The collisions caused structural damage to the Philippine coast guard vessels, BRP Bagacay and BRP Cape Engaño. The Philippines’ National Task Force on the West Philippine Sea stated that the maneuvers by the Chinese coast guard were unlawful and aggressive.
Sabina Shoal, situated near the Philippine-occupied Second Thomas Shoal, has become a new focal point in the territorial disputes between China and the Philippines. The two countries recently reached an agreement to prevent further confrontations at the Second Thomas Shoal when the Philippines transports new sentry forces and supplies to the area. Despite tensions, a recent transport mission by the Philippine navy to the Second Thomas Shoal went smoothly, suggesting a potential easing of tensions in the area.
China’s maritime claims in the South China Sea, including the disputed Spratly Islands, have led to ongoing disputes with several countries in the Asia-Pacific region. Beijing claims almost all of the South China Sea based on a 10-dash line on official maps, which has raised concerns among neighboring countries and the international community.
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