Philippines says 2 ships 'damaged' in collisions with Chinese vessels in South China Sea

By Anadolu staff

ANKARA (AA) - The Philippines on Monday alleged that two of its coast guard ships were damaged in separate collisions with Chinese vessels that were conducting "unlawful and aggressive maneuvers" near a disputed South China Sea reef.

The National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea said in a statement that the first collision occurred near Sabina Shoal "causing structural damage to both Philippine Coast Guard vessels," state-run Philippine News Agency reported.

A second Philippine Coast Guard ship was "rammed twice" on both sides by a China Coast Guard vessel some 39 kilometers (24 miles) northwest of Sabina.

The ship suffered "minor structural damage."

The ships were tasked to resupply personnel deployed in Patag and Lawak Islands.

The Filipino crew remained unhurt in both collisions, according to the report.

Beijing claims most of the South China Sea, including Sabina Shoal, located 140 kilometers (86 miles) west of the Philippine island of Palawan.