On July 25, 2026, the China Coast Guard (CCG) escalated tensions in the West Philippine Sea by firing water cannons at Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) vessels near Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal.This incident marks the third confrontation this week, following similar clashes on Thursday and Monday.

The CCG's actions included dangerous maneuvers, such as approaching Philippine ships within 7 meters and disabling their automatic identification systems, violating international navigation safety protocols.The PCG reported that the attacked vessels were conducting routine patrols and delivering supplies to fishermen in the area.Despite the aggression, all Filipino personnel remained unharmed, and the vessels continued their missions.

The National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea (NTF-WPS) reiterated its condemnation of the CCG's 'illegal, coercive, and deceptive' actions, emphasizing the need to uphold Philippine sovereignty in the South China Sea.The incident highlights ongoing territorial disputes, with China maintaining control over Panatag Shoal since 2012.

Both nations have pledged to finalize a Code of Conduct for the South China Sea by year-end, but tensions persist over maritime claims and resource rights.