Philippines says China made dangerous sea moves, used chopper

Journalists report as a Chinese coast guard ship tries to block the path of Philippine coast guard BRP Sindangan while they tried to enter the Second Thomas Shoal on March 5, 2024. - AP

MANILA: The Philippines said China made dangerous moves and deployed a chopper during Manila’s research mission to South China Sea, the latest flare-up in lingering tensions between the two nations over disputed waters.

A China Coast Guard ship tried to prevent a Philippine fisheries bureau vessel from reaching Manila-administered Thitu Island to check the status of marine life, Philippine Coast Guard spokesperson Commodore Jay Tarriela told a group of journalists who joined this week’s maritime mission.