A China Coast Guard (CCG) vessel rammed and fired a water cannon at a Philippine government ship near Pag-asa Island on Sunday, escalating tensions in the West Philippine Sea.
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) reported that CCG vessel 21559 targeted the BRP Datu Pagbuaya, which was distributing food and fuel to Filipino fishermen, causing minor damage but no injuries.
Despite the aggression, PCG and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) vowed to maintain their presence in the Kalayaan Island Group to protect Filipino fishers within the country’s exclusive economic zone.
China, meanwhile, claimed that Philippine vessels “illegally intruded” into its waters and caused the collision, reiterating its “indisputable sovereignty” over the area.
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said it is coordinating with the PCG and other agencies to determine appropriate action following the latest confrontation.
Source: PhilNews24 | October 14, 2025
