China’s deployment of 40 ships blocked two Philippine vessels from delivering supplies to Manila’s largest coast guard ship at Sabina Shoal, escalating their territorial disputes in the South China Sea.
Philippine officials reported this incident on Tuesday. The confrontation, which occurred on Monday afternoon, saw both nations accusing each other of escalating tensions in the uninhabited atoll, claimed by both countries.
Recent months have seen an increase in coast guard deployments from both China and the Philippines at Sabina Shoal, each suspecting the other of attempting to gain control and build structures in the area. Since last year, hostilities have particularly intensified, with Monday’s incident marking the sixth reported confrontation between the two nations at sea and in the air.
🇵🇭#Philippines appears to be attempting another resupply to BRP Teresa Magbanua at Sabina Shoal with two 44-meter coast guard vessels: BRP Cabra & BRP Cape Engano. 🇨🇳#China‘s maritime militia moving to block, while all China Coast Guard ships are AIS-“dark” & undetectable. pic.twitter.com/bkE69PXJR7
— Ray Powell (@GordianKnotRay) August 26, 2024
The Philippine coast guard criticised the “excessive force” used by Chinese coast guard and navy ships, accompanied by 31 suspected militia vessels. These Chinese forces allegedly obstructed the delivery of food supplies, including an ice cream treat, to BRP Teresa Magbanua, coinciding with the Philippines’ National Heroes’ Day.
Emphasising their resolve, the Philippine coast guard reaffirmed their commitment to national interests and maritime safety, and called on China to adhere to international law to foster mutual respect.
In Beijing, China’s coast guard claimed they acted against two Philippine coast guard ships that “intruded” near Sabina Shoal. According to a statement, the Philippine ships escalated the situation by repeatedly approaching a Chinese vessel, though the specific measures taken by the Chinese were not disclosed.
China’s military expansion and assertiveness in the South China Sea, which it claims almost entirely, have led to more frequent confrontations, particularly with the Philippines. Other claimants in the region include Vietnam, Taiwan, Malaysia, and Brunei.
Previously, Chinese and Philippine coast guard ships have collided near Sabina Shoal, known as Xianbin in Beijing and Escoda in Manila. Sabina Shoal, located about 140 kilometres west of Palawan in the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone, is near the Second Thomas Shoal. This area has also seen China obstructing Philippine supply deliveries to forces stationed on the BRP Sierra Madre.
Last month, China and the Philippines reached an agreement to prevent hostile confrontations at the Second Thomas Shoal. This accord allowed a Philippine vessel to deliver food supplies without incident a week later.
What Other Media Are Saying
- r/LessCredibleDefence discusses the Philippines demanding the return of rifles seized by China in the South China Sea, highlighting the incident’s humiliation and strategic imbalance. (read more)
- ABS-CBN News reports that China blocked the medical evacuation of a sick Filipino soldier in the West Philippine Sea, resulting in a standoff between the Chinese Coast Guard and Philippine Navy. (read more)
- 9News reports that the Chinese coast guard used water cannons to blast Philippine vessels, causing damage and endangering crew members in the South China Sea, sparking tensions and international condemnation. (read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
What happened between China and the Philippines at Sabina Shoal?
China blocked two Philippine vessels from delivering supplies at Sabina Shoal, escalating their territorial dispute.
Why did China deploy 40 ships at Sabina Shoal?
China aimed to block Philippine vessels from delivering supplies to Manila’s coast guard ship in the disputed area.
What did the Philippine coast guard say about the incident?
The Philippine coast guard condemned China’s ‘excessive force’ and urged China to respect international law.
Has there been recent tension between China and the Philippines in the South China Sea?
Yes, tensions have intensified, with six reported confrontations this year alone.
What is the significance of Sabina Shoal?
Sabina Shoal is a disputed area within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone, near key trade and security routes.