The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) reported that a China Coast Guard (CCG) vessel fired a water cannon at a Philippine fisheries boat delivering fuel subsidies to fishermen at Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal on July 23, 2026.The incident occurred during a mission by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) to provide aid amid rising fuel prices.

CCG vessel 3302 approached within 50 meters of BRP Datu Dumangsil before firing the water cannon for over two minutes, resulting in an indirect hit on the BFAR vessel.Another Chinese vessel, CCG 21579, also crossed paths with BRP Datu Paiburong.No injuries were reported, and the BFAR vessels continued their mission.PCG spokesperson Rear Adm.Jay Tarriela condemned the actions as a violation of maritime regulations and a threat to humanitarian efforts.Despite the encounter, fuel subsidies and food packs were delivered by mid-morning, with PCG vessels maintaining operations in the area.

The incident highlights ongoing tensions over territorial claims in the West Philippine Sea, where China's control of Panatag Shoal has been disputed since 2012.