The ongoing tensions between China and the Philippines over disputed territories in the South China Sea have flared up once again, with the Philippines alleging that a Chinese navy helicopter engaged in “unsafe maneuvers” against a Philippine Fisheries Bureau aircraft conducting a patrol near Scarborough Shoal. This incident adds to a series of confrontations over the disputed waters.
The encounter occurred on September 23, when a helicopter from the Chinese navy reportedly approached and shadowed a plane operated by the Philippines’ Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) as it patrolled near Scarborough Shoal, a territory claimed by both nations. The Philippine National Security Council (NSC) reported that despite the close encounter, the Philippine aircraft was able to complete its mission. The NSC has accused the Chinese helicopter of violating air safety rules, labeling the incident as “unprofessional” and “uncalled for.”
Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad, the Philippine Navy spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, criticized the actions of the Chinese helicopter, emphasizing that they endangered the safety of the BFAR personnel.
This recent helicopter encounter follows another incident last month when Chinese fighter jets reportedly fired flares in the path of a Philippine Air Force NC-212i light transport aircraft conducting a routine patrol over the Scarborough Shoal. In response, the Philippines’ South China Sea Task Force criticized China’s actions as demonstrating “hazardous intent” that jeopardized the safety of the Philippine crew.
Expanded Coverage:
