Chinese Navy, Coast Guard Collide Near Scarborough Shoal Amid Philippine Pursuit

Two Chinese vessels collided near Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea during a high-speed chase of a Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) ship, resulting in significant damage to the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) vessel and injuries to its crew. The incident has drawn sharp criticism from Philippine lawmakers, who condemned China's reckless maneuvers as violations of Philippine sovereignty and dangerous provocations that escalate tensions in the West Philippine Sea. Senator Jinggoy Estrada called the collision a consequence of China's own aggressive actions and praised the PCG for their professionalism in aiding the injured Chinese personnel despite ongoing harassment. Senator Risa Hontiveros highlighted the recklessness of Beijing's tactics and emphasized the need for sustained maritime law enforcement to protect Filipino fisherfolk and their access to traditional fishing grounds. Lawmakers urged the Philippine government to take appropriate actions against China's incursions, stressing the importance of upholding the 2016 Arbitral Award and defending the nation's maritime rights. Overall, the incident underscores ongoing disputes in the region and the Philippines' resolve to safeguard its territorial waters against Chinese assertiveness.