The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) is set to protest China’s dangerous maneuvers near the Scarborough Shoal, which led to a collision between Chinese vessels after a Filipino civilian ship narrowly escaped.
DFA Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro emphasized the importance of resolving the issue through diplomatic dialogue while citing international maritime safety conventions.
Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. criticized China’s blame against the Philippines, dismissing it as falsehoods.
The United States Ambassador to the Philippines, MaryKay Carlson, also condemned China’s actions as reckless, specifically targeting the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) vessel.
The incident occurred when the Chinese Coast Guard ship chased the BRP Suluan, resulting in a collision with the People’s Liberation Army Navy ship and damage to the PCG vessel, which was then assisted and towed by Filipino authorities.
Source: PhilNews24 | August 13, 2025
