China Coast Guard vessel rams and damages Philippine boat on refueling mission

The Philippine Coast Guard said a China Coast Guard vessel rammed and damaged a Philippine boat during a refueling and resupply mission in the South China Sea on Friday. The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources ship BRP Datu Magat Salamat was distributing fuel to Filipino fishermen about 54 nautical miles off Palawan when the collision occurred at 11:13 a.m., the PCG said. It reported damage to railings and deck structures but no injuries. The PCG released video showing crew members yelling “brace for impact!” before the impact. China said it was conducting operations near Sabina Shoal after the Philippine vessel allegedly ignored repeated warnings, while Manila has accused Beijing of similar incidents near Scarborough and Second Thomas Shoals in July.