At least eight Filipino naval personnel were injured in a confrontation with the Chinese coast guard while delivering supplies to a military outpost on the disputed Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea. The incident led to injuries, collisions, and damage to Philippine navy boats.
The Philippines foreign ministry condemned China’s actions as illegal and aggressive, highlighting the ongoing tensions in the region. Despite efforts to promote dialogue, disputes over territorial claims continue, with China enacting laws to strengthen its control over the South China Sea.
Recent incidents, including a medical evacuation mission blocked by China, have further escalated tensions between the two countries. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr has emphasized the importance of Manila’s mutual defense treaty with the United States in case of Filipino casualties in the disputed waters.