Part 10/13:
In the South China Sea, tensions erupted anew near T2 Island, where vessels from China and the Philippines collided, symbolizing the ongoing contest over territorial sovereignty. According to Beijing, Philippine ships had illegally intruded into disputed waters and dangerously approached Chinese vessels, causing a collision that Beijing asserts was handled professionally and lawfully.
Manila counters that Chinese ships deliberately rammed their vessels using water cannons, reflecting a pattern of aggressive and provocative behaviors by China. The Philippines described the incident as bullying tactics, further accusing China of asserting indisputable sovereignty over the Spratly Islands—a stance vehemently opposed by Manila and its allies, notably the US.