The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) confirmed that Chinese fighter jets intercepted a Philippine maritime patrol aircraft over Panatag Shoal (Scarborough Shoal) on September 2, describing the action as coercive and aggressive.
Despite the incident, the AFP said the Philippines will continue its patrols and assert its sovereign rights in the West Philippine Sea while strengthening cooperation with treaty allies and like-minded nations such as Japan and Australia.
Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro Jr. also strongly criticized China’s position on the South China Sea arbitration during the 2026 Seoul Defense Dialogue, defending the Philippines’ commitment to international law and UNCLOS.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. meanwhile urged Filipinos to promote awareness of the country’s maritime rights and reaffirmed the government’s resolve to protect Philippine waters.
The Philippines is also seeking closer cooperation with Pacific nations and Canada on maritime security, international law, defense exercises, and regional stability.
Source: PhilNews24 | September 9, 2026
