China Coast Guard Rammed, Water Cannoned Philippine Ship During Research Mission

The Philippines and China clashed in the West Philippine Sea on May 21, 2025. A Chinese Coast Guard ship aggressively attacked a Philippine Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) vessel conducting a marine research mission near Pag-asa Island. The Chinese ship used water cannons and rammed the BFAR vessel twice. Philippine Coast Guard Commodore Jay Tarriela stated, "They have been very aggressive." Despite the incident, the Philippine Coast Guard affirmed its commitment to continue its operations in the area. The incident highlights the ongoing tensions between the two countries in the disputed waters. The video evidence of the attack underscores the severity of the situation and the need for a peaceful resolution.