Chinese Diplomats Organize Counterprotests in San Francisco

The Philippine Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) vessel BRP Datu Sanday faced aggressive maneuvers from multiple Chinese maritime forces while attempting a humanitarian mission near Sabina Shoal. The incident involved dangerous tactics including ramming and water cannon deployment, resulting in the termination of the mission. China's response included claims that the BFAR vessel illegally entered Chinese waters, a statement dismissed by the Philippines as misinformation. In a separate context, Chinese diplomats and diaspora groups have reportedly suppressed dissent in the U.S. during official visits, reflecting China's broader strategy to extend its repression beyond its borders. This pattern of intimidation against diaspora communities advocating for human rights has raised concerns among U.S. officials and human rights groups. The incidents highlight both the ongoing tensions in the South China Sea and China's efforts to control narratives around its governance.