South China Sea: Beijing asserts ‘control measures’ against Philippine ships

China says it has taken “control measures” against two Philippine vessels near the Sierra Madre, a warship grounded on the disputed Second Thomas Shoal, as tensions re-emerge in the contested waters of the South China Sea.

In a short statement on Friday morning, China Coast Guard spokesman Gan Yu accused the two Philippine ships deployed from the Sierra Madre of “deliberately engaging in provocative collisions” when approaching a Chinese coastguard vessel.

He did not specify when the confrontation took place, but said the Chinese side “implemented control measures” in response.

In a 33-second video released by the China Coast Guard, a Philippine crew member is seen filming the Chinese ship. One of the Philippine ships also crosses in front of the Chinese vessel.

“The China Coast Guard will continue to carry out rights protection and law enforcement activities in the waters near Renai Jiao in accordance with the law, resolutely safeguarding national sovereignty and maritime rights and interests,” Gan said, using the Chinese name for Second Thomas Shoal, which is also known as Ayungin Shoal in the Philippines.

03:09

Chinese ships collide during clash with Philippine coastguard in contested South China Sea

On Thursday, the Philippine military said it observed “an increase” in Chinese vessels, including coastguard vessels and militia ships, near Second Thomas Shoal on Wednesday.

South China Morning Post