Tensions rose sharply near Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea on Tuesday. China’s coast guard accused a Philippine ship of ramming one of its vessels. However, the Philippines denied the claim and stated that Chinese ships used powerful water cannons, which damaged a Filipino vessel and injured a crew member.

According to China, more than 10 Philippine government ships approached the shoal from different directions. In response, Chinese ships fired water cannons at the vessels. The confrontation came just six days after China announced part of Scarborough Shoal as a national nature reserve, which it calls Huangyan Island. Meanwhile, the Philippines, which calls the area Bajo de Masinloc, filed a diplomatic protest against the move.

Damage to Philippine Vessel

The Philippine coast guard reported that two Chinese ships targeted the BRP Datu Gumbay Piang, a Filipino fisheries vessel, with water cannons for nearly 30 minutes. As a result, the attack shattered glass in the captain’s cabin and the bridge. A crew member was injured, and electrical short circuits affected outlets and five outdoor air-conditioning units.

Additionally, the Philippine coast guard and fisheries ships were providing fuel, water, ice, and other aid to more than 35 fishing boats operating near the shoal.

Regional Dispute Context

China and the Philippines frequently clash over territorial claims in the South China Sea. China claims almost the entire area, while the Philippines and other countries contest parts of it. Because of this, the waters are strategically important and rich in fishing resources, which makes the region a persistent hotspot.

International Response

Several countries expressed support for the Philippines regarding China’s declaration of the nature reserve. For instance, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio called China’s actions “yet another coercive move to advance sweeping territorial and maritime claims in the South China Sea at the expense of its neighbors.” Similarly, the U.K. and Australia voiced concern, while the Canadian Embassy in the Philippines opposed using environmental protection as a pretext to control Scarborough Shoal.

Rising Tensions

Overall, the incident highlights growing tension in the South China Sea. Both China and the Philippines continue to assert control over Scarborough Shoal. Consequently, the area remains a flashpoint in regional politics and continues to draw international attention.