On October 12, 2025, tensions escalated sharply in the South China Sea when a Chinese coast guard vessel rammed and damaged the Philippine government ship BRP Datu Pagbuaya near Thitu Island, a territory claimed by the Philippines but contested by China. The Philippine coast guard reported that the Chinese vessel used a powerful water cannon against the anchored Filipino ship, followed by a deliberate collision causing minor structural damage without injuring any crew members. This incident occurred during a Philippine government operation to protect local fishermen in the disputed Spratly Islands region. Manila condemned the aggressive act as a clear provocation and reiterated its unwavering resolve to defend its sovereign waters, refusing to surrender any territory. China denied wrongdoing, accusing the Philippine vessels of illegally entering Chinese-claimed waters and placing full responsibility on the Philippines for the collision. The episode highlights ongoing instability in the strategically vital South China Sea, a crucial maritime route with competing sovereignty claims, and drew support for the Philippines from allies like the United States, reflecting broader geopolitical concerns in the Indo-Pacific region.