China and the Philippines have recently clashed in the South China Sea, with Manila accusing Chinese vessels of engaging in “dangerous maneuvers,” including attempting to tow a Philippine ship. These clashes frequently occur near Second Thomas Shoal, a disputed submerged reef controlled by the Philippines but claimed by both countries. While collisions between vessels have occurred in the past, an attempt by China to tow a Philippine ship marks a potential escalation in tensions.
The United States, with a defense pact with the Philippines, condemned China’s actions as “escalatory and irresponsible,” particularly in hindering the delivery of humanitarian supplies to Filipino service members stationed at a garrison on a ship grounded at Second Thomas Shoal. The BRP Sierra Madre, purposely grounded in 1999, serves as a strategic outpost for the Philippines in the region.