In a recent confrontation in the South China Sea, the Philippine government has summoned China's ambassador to express a strong diplomatic protest. The incident involved the Chinese coast guard's use of water cannons against Philippine vessels near Second Thomas Shoal, a highly disputed area claimed by both countries. Manila accused China of excessive and offensive use of force, while China defended its actions as necessary controls against illegal entry into its waters. The international community, including the US, Britain, the EU, and Australia, has condemned China's actions.

The Philippines presented evidence in the form of pictures and videos to support their claims. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. stated that the Filipino boat involved was delivering supplies and new army personnel to the Philippine-occupied Second Thomas Shoal. Located in the Spratly Islands, the shoal is about 200 kilometers away from the Philippine island of Palawan and over 1,000 kilometers from China's nearest major landmass.

The Philippines has long complained about China's intimidation tactics in the disputed waters. The approach of President Marcos Jr. towards China differs from his predecessor, Rodrigo Duterte, who sought closer ties with Beijing during his tenure. Marcos Jr. aims to maintain a friendship with China while asserting the Philippines' maritime rights. Washington condemned China's actions and reiterated its commitment to defend the Philippines if necessary. The recent incident highlights the ongoing territorial conflicts in the South China Sea.

China claims almost all of the region as its own, disregarding a 2016 international tribunal ruling against its claims. The South China Sea is a crucial trade route where trillions of dollars in trade pass through annually. The disputes in the region have become a fault line in the rivalry between the United States and China. The US has consistently criticized China's aggressive actions and has deployed its warships and fighter jets to uphold freedom of navigation. China, on the other hand, has accused the US of meddling in an Asian dispute and has warned of repercussions.