MANILA, Philippine: The Philippine government reported that two of its coast guard ships sustained damage after being involved in collisions with Chinese vessels near the disputed Sabina Shoal in the South China Sea on Monday.
The incidents occurred during what Manila described as “unlawful and aggressive maneuvers” by the Chinese coast guard.
The BRP Cape Engano suffered a 13-centimeter hole in its right beam following a collision 43 kilometers southeast of Sabina Shoal. Shortly after, another Philippine vessel, the BRP Bagacay, was “rammed twice” by a Chinese coast guard ship, resulting in minor structural damage. Despite the incidents, the Filipino crew remained uninjured and continued their mission to resupply Philippine-held islands in the Spratly group.
Tensions have been high between Manila and Beijing, as both countries have stationed vessels near Sabina Shoal, which China claims as part of its extensive territorial claims in the South China Sea.
