Recent news reports have highlighted escalating tensions between the Philippines and China over the disputed Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea. Incidents include clashes between Philippine and Chinese coast guard vessels, with reports of water cannon blasts, collisions, and the dismantling of a Chinese buoy barrier by the Philippine coast guard. The most recent clash occurred when the Chinese coast guard allegedly blocked a Philippine supply boat and damaged it with water cannons.
Second Thomas Shoal, also known as Ayungin Shoal, is an atoll located in the Spratly Islands. It is a strategic and contentious area due to its rich fishing grounds and potential oil and gas reserves. The shoal is currently occupied by a small contingent of Philippine Marines stationed on a grounded military vessel, the BRP Sierra Madre. The Philippines and China, along with other countries in the region, have competing territorial claims over the South China Sea, leading to ongoing tensions and disputes in the area.