Tensions between China and the Philippines have reignited in the South China Sea after a collision between their vessels near the disputed Thitu Island on Sunday. The incident marks another flashpoint in the long-standing maritime dispute between the two nations.
Both sides have issued conflicting statements, each accusing the other of provocation and unsafe maneuvers in the contested waters.
According to the China Coast Guard (CCG), two Philippine government vessels “illegally intruded” into waters near Tiexian Reef, also known internationally as Sandy Cay, without Beijing’s permission. Despite what China described as “repeated stern warnings,” one of the Philippine vessels allegedly made a dangerous approach toward a Chinese ship, leading to a collision.
“The Philippine side bears full responsibility for this incident,” CCG spokesman Liu Dejun said in an official statement.
The South China Sea dispute remains one of the most volatile issues in the region, with both China and the Philippines asserting sovereignty over several overlapping maritime zones. Analysts warn that such incidents risk further escalating regional tensions and could impact stability across Southeast Asia.
