Philippines reports maritime collision in South China Sea amid National Maritime Week

The Philippines is observing its 27th National Maritime Week from September 20 to 27, under the theme ‘From Policy to Practice: Powering Maritime Excellence’. The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) are leading the celebration to highlight the maritime sector's role in the national economy and the daily lives of citizens.

Amidst these celebrations, tensions have escalated in the South China Sea. The Philippine Coast Guard reported that on September 18, a Chinese maritime police vessel, ‘CCG-21585’, engaged in dangerous maneuvers against the Philippine patrol vessel ‘Datu Magat Salamat’. According to PCG spokesperson Jay Taliera, the Chinese vessel initially crossed within 10 meters of the Philippine ship's stern before repeatedly maneuvering and eventually colliding with the patrol vessel while it was delivering fuel subsidies to local fishermen.