Chinese and Philippine maritime forces clashed at Second Thomas Shoal on Monday. Personnel on a Chinese speedboat and Philippine dinghy came to blows. The incident took place ahead of an ASEAN foreign ministers’ meeting in Manila.
The China Coast Guard said Philippine vessels ignored repeated warnings, approached dangerously and rammed a Chinese patrol vessel from the front.
It stated that Philippine personnel first used oars and long sticks to attack Chinese law enforcement officers. The Chinese side issued verbal warnings, manoeuvred to avoid collision and took reciprocal countermeasures while exercising restraint.
The agency accused the Philippines of distorting facts and making false accusations. It demanded that Manila immediately cease its infringements, provocations and false propaganda.
