Disputed atoll in the South China Sea
A BFAR vessel delivering fuel to Filipino fishermen off Palawan has collided with a China Coast Guard ship after dangerous manoeuvres. Manila accuses Beijing of ramming a civilian government vessel on a humanitarian mission; Beijing blames the Philippine side for disregarding warnings. No injuries are reported, but deck damage is evident.
A flotilla of Chinese vessels has intensified operations around Taiwan and the Pratas Islands, drawing coastguard responses. Beijing asserts sovereignty over the Pratas and surrounding waters, while Taiwan and its allies reject Beijing’s claims and insist on freedom of navigation. The situation follows a pattern of rising Chinese maritime activity in the region.