Tensions in the South China Sea have flared once again after the Philippines accused China’s Coast Guard of using water cannons and performing dangerous manoeuvres against a Philippine vessel near the disputed Scarborough Shoal.

The incident, which occurred on December 4, has heightened already strained relations between Manila and Beijing over territorial claims in the resource-rich waters, as reported by BBC. 

The Philippine Coast Guard released dramatic footage showing a Chinese vessel firing a water cannon at a Philippines fisheries department ship. Another recording from the Philippine side allegedly shows its own crew shouting “Collision! Collision!” as it was sideswiped. The Philippine Coast Guard has since stated that the Chinese vessel "intentionally sideswiped" their ship before launching a second water cannon attack.

China’s Coast Guard, in turn, defended its actions, claiming that Philippine ships "came dangerously close" to its vessel and asserting that its response was "in accordance with the law." Beijing also accused Manila of fabricating the incident to mislead the international community. Despite China’s denial, the US Ambassador to the Philippines, MaryKay Carlson, strongly condemned the actions, calling them "unlawful" and "dangerous." Carlson said that such tactics jeopardised lives and disrupted legitimate Philippine maritime operations.

This incident underscores the ongoing volatility in the South China Sea, a region fraught with territorial disputes involving China, the Philippines, and other Southeast Asian nations. The Scarborough Shoal, in particular, has been a flashpoint for confrontations, with both sides claiming sovereignty over the area. The Philippines has reported increasing provocations from China, including the use of water cannons, lasers, and even boarding Philippine ships.

The recent escalation is part of a wider pattern of dangerous encounters, as both countries enforce their claims over disputed reefs and islands. Philippine officials have accused China of regularly intimidating their vessels, sometimes even puncturing inflatable boats or seizing items from their ships.

The South China Sea dispute is not only a matter of national pride but also one of significant economic and strategic importance. The waters are believed to hold vast reserves of oil and natural gas, making them a crucial resource for the countries in the region.