Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi warned the Philippines of “bitter consequences” for seeking outside backing in the South China Sea dispute. This warning was followed by China's coastguard expelling two Philippine government vessels near Scarborough Shoal, citing ignored warnings and entry into Chinese-claimed waters.
Philippine Foreign Minister Maria Theresa Lazaro and Chinese diplomat Wang held "candid, comprehensive and constructive" talks at the ASEAN meeting, discussing maritime disputes, security, trade, and regional stability, with Lazaro reiterating Manila's protest over China Coast Guard actions near Second Thomas Shoal.
A clash near the disputed Second Thomas Shoal involved a Chinese coastguard vessel and two Philippine Navy dinghies. China accused Philippine servicemen of using tools to attack its officers, summoned the Philippine ambassador, and stated its actions were 'reasonable and lawful' while condemning Philippine 'false accusations'.
The China Coast Guard accused Philippine vessels of ramming a Chinese patrol vessel and maliciously attacking officers with oars and sticks after ignoring warnings. China stated it took rational and restrained countermeasures and demanded the Philippines cease infringements and false propaganda.
Taiwan accuses China of provocation and cognitive warfare by conducting law-enforcement operations in waters off Taiwan's east coast, asserting jurisdiction over non-controlled waters.
A CCTV-affiliated social media account reported that China's patrols east of Taiwan show an expansion of sailing paths and enhanced governing capabilities, suggesting a complete sea-governance system around the island.
Taiwan's coastguard will lead responses to Chinese vessels near the Dongsha Islands, with naval support, as Beijing's increased activity fuels concerns about testing responses and grey-zone tactics.
