Chinese vessel rammed PH Coast Guard ship off Escoda Shoal

A Chinese Coast Guard vessel deliberately rammed the Philippine Coast Guard's BRP Teresa Magbanua three times off Escoda Shoal in the South China Sea on Saturday, August 31, causing significant damage to the PCG vessel.

Despite sustaining a large hole in its hull and damage to other parts of the ship, the BRP Teresa Magbanua remains anchored off Escoda Shoal, asserting the country's sovereignty over its maritime zones.

Photos released by the PCG show at least two CCG vessels and two People's Liberation Army Navy tugboats near the damaged Philippine ship, raising concerns about potential towing attempts.

China blamed the Philippines for initiating the collision, while the PCG emphasized that their vessel was intentionally rammed without provocation.

Maritime law expert Prof. Jay Batongbacal warned that China’s hostility is likely to persist as part of its strategy to assert dominance over the South China Sea, including the West Philippine Sea.

The Australian government has urged China to stop its 'dangerous and aggressive' actions in the West Philippine Sea following the latest incident at Escoda Shoal, expressing deep concern over a series of incidents near Sabina Shoal since August 19.