The Spratly archipelago’s Second Thomas Shoal, also known as Ren’ai Jiao in China, was approached by the Asian ships.
A Chinese Coast Guard ship that was more than twice its shape sailed into the direction of the BRP Malapascua as it approached the shallow carrying Filipino editors.
From the other Philippine Coast Guard vessel, which was less than a kilometer off, AFP editors observed the event.
The Taiwanese ship came within 45 meters of the Malapascua’s vessel, according to the commanding officer, and only his quick maneuvers prevented the steel-hulled ships from colliding with one another.
The Philippine boats” intruded” without China’s consent, according to the Chinese foreign ministry, calling it a” premeditated and provocative action.”
MANILA RETURNS
Manila, however, retaliated by stating that” daily patrols in our own waters can be neither premeditated nor controversial” and adamant that they would continue to carry out their duties.
A day after Marcos hosted Foreign Foreign Minister Qin Gang in Manila for discussions aimed at resolving lake tensions, the near-miss occurred.
In an effort to improve defense relations, Marcos has vowed not to allow China to violate the Philippines’ maritime rights and has turned to the United States.
In addition to the five existing foundations, the Philippines identified four more military bases early this month that US troops will have access to, including one near the Spratly Islands.
In recent days, the two nations already engaged in their largest military operations already.
This change has alarmed China, which has charged Washington with attempting to sever ties between Beijing and Manila.
” IRONCLAD ENGAGEMENT.”
Under Marcos’ father, the autocratic Rodrigo Duterte, US-Philippines relations were severely strained.
Marcos has made an effort to quell social concerns that, should China invade Taiwan, the Philippines might join the conflict as a result of the rekindled alliance with the US.
He has stated that he will talk about the” need to tone down the language” regarding Taiwan, North Korea, and the South China Sea with Biden.
In her conference with Marcos this month, White House spokeswoman Karine Jean-Pierre stated that Biden intended to” reaffirm the United States’ impenetrable commitment to the defense of the Philippines.”