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The Philippines has condemned China’s aggressive actions to block a medical evacuation mission in the South China Sea, calling them “barbaric and inhumane.” Despite notifying the Chinese Coast Guard of the humanitarian nature of their mission, the Philippine coast guard claimed the Chinese vessels engaged in dangerous maneuvers, even intentionally ramming the vessel carrying the sick personnel.
The incident, which occurred near Ayungin Shoal, highlighted the ongoing tensions between the two nations over territorial disputes in the region. The Philippines asserts that Ayungin lies within its exclusive economic zone, but China disputes this claim.
Manila has protested recent incidents of Chinese Coast Guard harassment, including the use of water cannons that damaged a Filipino vessel. These confrontations add to the escalating tensions in the South China Sea, where the Philippines has strengthened ties with the US.