Scarborough Shoal

Allegations that Chinese vessels have used the toxic chemical in their fishing operations add to the climate of tension in the South China Sea.

The condemnation came after the Philippine Coast Guard reported another incident in the vicinity of Scarborough Shoal on January 12.

After a tumultuous 2023, the Philippines is set for another year of confrontation in contested waters.

In two separate incidents over the weekend, Chinese vessels collided with and used water cannons against Philippine ships in contested parts of the South China Sea.

The accusation follows the Chinese military's claim that a Philippine vessel "illegally entered" the area around Scarborough Shoal, which both nations claim.

Vice Adm. Alberto Carlos' comments come two days after the Philippine Coast Guard removed a barrier that Chinese ships had installed at the disputed Scarborough Shoal.

The Philippine Coast Guard described China's installation of the barrier at Scarborough Shoal as "a clear violation of international law.”

The "floating barrier" is intended to prevent Filipino fishermen from accessing Scarborough Shoal, a China-occupied feature in the South China Sea.

Although both sides have kept it low key, Chinese coast guard activities are continuing in areas claimed by Manila.

The Philippine Coast Guard claims that Chinese vessels have maneuvered dangerously close to Philippine ships on four occasions over the past year.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry has asked the Philippines to respect what it calls Chinese sovereignty in the disputed waters.

The warship was accompanied by China Coast Guard and maritime militia vessels.