A Chinese coastguard vessel has collided with a Philippine government ship in the disputed South China Sea, according to the Philippine Coast Guard.
The incident occurred off the coast of Palawan province on Friday, September 18, 2026. Philippine authorities accused the Chinese vessel of carrying out dangerous manoeuvres before striking the BRP Datu Magat Salamat, a vessel belonging to the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR).
The Philippine Coast Guard said the Chinese ship initially crossed the path of the Philippine vessel at a distance of about 10 metres. About 10 minutes later, it allegedly repeated the manoeuvre and rammed the Philippine ship, causing severe damage to one side of the vessel.
No injuries were reported. The Philippine vessel was reportedly carrying out a mission to supply fuel to Filipino fishermen when the collision occurred.
Philippine Coast Guard spokesman Jay Tarriela released video footage that he said showed the incident.
China, however, rejected the Philippine account and blamed the collision on the Philippine vessel. According to China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Philippine ship ignored warnings, deliberately changed course and suddenly accelerated in front of the Chinese vessel.
The incident is the latest in a series of confrontations between Chinese and Philippine vessels in the disputed South China Sea.
China claims sovereignty over most of the South China Sea, while the Philippines maintains territorial rights over waters it considers part of its territory. Tensions between the two countries have increased in recent months following several maritime confrontations.
The United States has also expressed concern about China's activities in the region, while Manila continues to strengthen its cooperation with Washington.
The South China Sea remains a major source of regional tension, with several countries maintaining competing territorial claims over parts of the strategically important waters.
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