MANILA (Reuters) – The Philippines accused Chinese maritime forces of using water cannon and ramming a Philippine ship near Philippine-occupied Thitu Island, calling the actions a “clear threat” that is escalating tensions in the disputed waters of the South China Sea.
The Philippine Coast Guard said three Philippine vessels, including the BRP Datu Pagbuaya, were anchored near Thitu Island, known locally as Pag-asa Island, early Sunday as part of a government program to protect local fishermen when Chinese vessels reportedly approached and used water cannons to intimidate them.
An hour later, a Chinese coast guard ship reportedly fired its water cannon directly at the BRP Datu Pagbuaya before colliding with its stern, causing minor damage but no injuries, the PCG said.
The Manila coast guard and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources vowed to continue their operations in the area, saying their presence is essential to safeguard the livelihoods of Filipino fishermen.
The Chinese embassy in Manila did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Tensions between China and the Philippines over the South China Sea have been increasing throughout the year, particularly in Scarborough Shoal, a privileged fishing ground.
China claims almost the entire South China Sea, a vital waterway for more than $3 trillion in annual maritime trade, parts of which are also claimed by Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines and Vietnam.
(Reporting by Phuong Nguyen and Karen Lema; Editing by Raju Gopalakrishnan)