Chinese Coast Guard Vessels Harass Filipino Boat Near Pag-asa Island

Two China Coast Guard vessels were sighted near a Filipino vessel sailing towards Pag-asa Island in the West Philippine Sea on May 27, 2025. The Atin Ito Coalition, a group advocating for Filipino rights in the area, reported the incident. The CCG ships maintained a close proximity to the Filipino boat, prompting concerns about freedom of navigation and potential harassment. A spokesperson for the Atin Ito Coalition stated, "We were simply exercising our right to navigate in our own waters when these Chinese ships appeared. It was unsettling and concerning." The Chinese Coast Guard, however, claims the area falls within their territory. This incident highlights the ongoing territorial disputes in the West Philippine Sea and the need for peaceful resolution of these conflicts. The Atin Ito Coalition plans to continue their mission to Pag-asa Island, asserting their right to access their own territory.