Philippines Says Its Ships ‘Followed, Harassed’ by 2 Chinese Vessels in Disputed Sea

A Chinese coast guard ship patrols Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea on Oct. 6, 2022. STR/AFP via Getty Images

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) stated on July 5 that two Chinese coast guard vessels had “followed, harassed, and obstructed” its ships on a support mission in the disputed South China Sea on June 30.

PCG spokesman Jay Tarriela said the PCG vessels—BRP Malabrigo and BRP Malapascua—were assisting a naval operation in the Ayungin Shoal when they were approached by the Chinese vessels.