Philippine and Chinese coast guard ships face off in the South China Sea after a collision near Thitu Island.

South China Sea Philippines Tensions Escalate as Chinese Ship ‘Rams’ Government Vessel

Tensions in the South China Sea have surged again after a Chinese Coast Guard ship allegedly rammed a Philippine government vessel near Thitu Island on October 12, 2025. According to the Philippine Coast Guard, the ship BRP Datu Pagbuaya was conducting a routine resupply mission when it was struck by a larger Chinese vessel. Manila…