US Urges China to Stop Harassing Philippine Vessels in Disputed Sea

A Chinese coast guard ship with bow number 5201 blocks Philippine Coast Guard ship BRP Malapascua as it maneuvers to enter the mouth of the Second Thomas Shoal locally known as Ayungin Shoal at the South China Sea on April 23, 2023. Aaron Favila/AP Photo

The United States urged China on April 29 to stop harassing Philippine vessels in the South China Sea following a tense encounter between a Chinese coast guard ship and a Philippine patrol ship in the disputed waterway.

The incident in the Ayungin Shoal—also known as the Second Thomas Shoal—is a “stark reminder” of China’s “harassment and intimidation of Philippine vessels” in the disputed waters, State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said.