Tensions have escalated in the South China Sea following a third reported collision between Philippine and Chinese coastguard vessels at Sabina Shoal. The China Coast Guard (CCG), represented by spokesman Liu Dejun, accused the Philippine coastguard vessel BRP Teresa Magbanua (MRRV-9701) of deliberately colliding with Chinese vessel CCG 5205 on Saturday afternoon. Liu claimed that this incident occurred after a series of provocative maneuvers initiated by the Philippine side throughout the day, and warned that the Philippines would “bear all the consequences” if it continues to escalate the situation in the contested waters.

Philippine coastguard spokesman Jay Tarriela refuted the CCG’s claims, asserting that it was, in fact, the Chinese vessel that rammed the BRP Teresa Magbanua three times without provocation. Video evidence shared by Tarriela supported his assertion. The videos reportedly captured the collisions between approximately 12:07 PM and 12:22 PM on Saturday, portraying CCG 5205 striking the Philippine vessel in multiple locations.

The current incident marks the third collision between the two maritime forces in less than two weeks, highlighting the ongoing territorial disputes over the resource-rich Spratly Islands, which are claimed by several nations including the Philippines, Vietnam, and Malaysia. Sabina Shoal, known as Xianbin Reef in China, has been a focal point of these territorial claims. The Philippine Coast Guard has deployed the Teresa Magbanua to assert the country’s claims since April, provoking a series of protests and patrols from the Chinese side.

Earlier this month, the Philippines accused the Chinese coastguard of aggressive actions against its vessel, the BRP Datu Sanday (MMOV 3002), which included ramming incidents and the use of water cannons. Such confrontations have increasingly complicated relations between the two nations in the region. China maintains that the Philippine vessel’s presence at Sabina Shoal is an infringement of its sovereignty, threatening to escalate the matter further.

The Chinese Defense Ministry also criticized the Philippine actions, suggesting they have “opened a Pandora’s box” regarding the disputed claims in the South China Sea. The Ministry has repeatedly urged the Philippines to cease its operations and withdraw its forces from these contested areas, asserting China’s commitment to safeguarding its territorial integrity.

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