In a concerning display of aggression, a Chinese coast guard ship confronted a Philippine navy-operated supply boat for the second consecutive day in the disputed waters of the South China Sea. The incident occurred on Sunday and further escalated tensions between the two nations.

General Romeo Brawner Jr., the head of the Philippine military, revealed that he witnessed the confrontation firsthand aboard the Unnaiza Mae 1. The Chinese coast guard ship unleashed a water cannon on the Philippine vessel, which was en route to deliver Christmas gifts, food, and supplies to Filipino marines and navy personnel stationed on the BRP Sierra Madre at Second Thomas Shoal.

Describing the encounter as a "pure aggression," Gen. Brawner explained to The Associated Press that the Chinese coast guard and militia ships repeatedly obstructed their path, using water cannons and even colliding with their vessel. Such actions left the Philippine crew angered and perplexed by the display of force.

This was not an isolated incident, as similar clashes occurred on Saturday and Sunday. The intense pressure from the water cannon disabled the Philippine supply boat, M/L Kalayaan, forcing it to be towed back to a Philippine port. Additionally, one of the two Philippine coast guard escort ships, the BRP Cabra, suffered damage to its mast due to the aggressive actions of the Chinese vessels.

Furthermore, Chinese ships have been accused of ramming another Philippine vessel, both at Second Thomas Shoal and Scarborough Shoal in the northwestern part of the Philippines. These incidents have further strained the already complex situation in the disputed South China Sea.

In response, Chinese officials have placed blame on the United States, accusing them of encouraging the Philippines to provoke China. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning emphasized that the maritime disputes should be resolved solely between the two countries and emphasized that no third party has the right to intervene. Mao went on to accuse the U.S. of supporting and cooperating with the Philippines in their alleged violations and provocations in the South China Sea, ultimately exacerbating tensions.

The clash between the Chinese coast guard and the Philippine navy highlights the ongoing territorial disputes in the South China Sea, a region claimed by multiple countries. The frequency and intensity of these incidents raise concerns regarding the potential for further escalations and the need for diplomatic solutions to resolve the longstanding maritime disputes in the region.