The Philippines is developing options to address the reported ramming of the unarmed BFAR vessel BRP Datu Magat Salamat by a China Coast Guard ship off Palawan, according to Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro.
Philippine Coast Guard spokesperson Rear Admiral Jay Tarriela said the incident was the first documented case of a Chinese Coast Guard vessel aggressively ramming an unarmed Philippine government ship conducting a humanitarian mission.
Teodoro said the incident needs to be addressed and that the government is coordinating with national security officials while reviewing possible responses.
Meanwhile, Reporters Without Borders warned of China’s expanding efforts to influence the global media environment through state media, content-sharing deals, journalist training, and outreach to online influencers.
The group said China’s media strategy seeks to promote Beijing’s narratives internationally, while also citing concerns over pressure on journalists and cooperation between Chinese and other state-linked media organizations.
Source: PhilNews24 | September 23, 2026
