BEIJING, China – China said on Thursday, July 23, 2026, it tracked and drove away two Philippine vessels it accused of having “intruded into” waters near Scarborough Shoal despite warnings, the week’s second incident in the South China Sea to involve both countries.
The Chinese Coast Guard stated that the Philippine vessels ignored repeated warnings and entered the waters without permission, prompting China to take measures to expel them. The Philippine government has not yet commented on the incident.
Scarborough Shoal, located in the South China Sea, is claimed by both China and the Philippines, as well as other regional countries. The area has been a flashpoint for tensions between the two nations, with previous incidents involving naval and coast guard vessels.
This incident follows a similar confrontation earlier in the week, highlighting ongoing disputes in the region. The Chinese Foreign Ministry reiterated its stance on territorial sovereignty, calling for peaceful resolution of conflicts.
