China says it has taken “control measures” against two Philippine vessels near the Sierra Madre, a warship grounded on the disputed Second Thomas Shoal, as tensions re-emerge in the contested waters of the South China Sea.
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In a short statement on Friday morning, Gan Yu, a spokesman for the China Coast Guard, accused the two Philippine ships of “deliberately engaging in provocative collisions” when approaching the China Coast Guard after being deployed from the Sierra Madre.
He did not specify when the confrontation took place, but said the Chinese side had “implemented control measures” in response.
In a 33-second video released by China Coast Guard, Philippine crew was spotted filming the Chinese ship. One of the Philippine ships was also seen crossing in front of the Chinese vessel.
“China Coast Guard will continue to carry out rights protection and law enforcement activities in the waters near Renai Jiao in accordance with the law, resolutely safeguarding national sovereignty and maritime rights and interests,” Gan said, using the Chinese name of the Second Thomas Shoal, which is also known as Ayungin Shoal in the Philippines.
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Chinese ships collide during clash with Philippine coastguard in contested South China Sea
Chinese ships collide during clash with Philippine coastguard in contested South China Sea
On Thursday, the Philippine military said it had observed “an increase” in Chinese vessels, including coastguard vessels and militia ships, near the Second Thomas Shoal on Wednesday.
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