The waters around the Philippines remained a source of contention in 2024, with a rising number of clashes between Philippine and Chinese forces.
With seven major incidents recorded, these underscored escalating tensions in the West Philippine Sea. Confrontations included dangerous water cannon attacks, aggressive boardings, and aerial threats, all of which exacerbated an already fraught situation in the region.
Details of these close encounters were listed in a recent article by the Philippine Star. One of the most significant incidents occurred in June 2024, when Chinese Coast Guard personnel, armed with bolos and knives, threatened Philippine Navy soldiers during a rotation and resupply mission to the BRP Sierra Madre at Ayungin Shoal. The violent encounter damaged Philippine vessels, with Chinese forces boarding and puncturing Philippine boats, destroying critical communications equipment, and seizing weapons.
This aggressive action was followed by a series of similar incidents, including attacks in March where water cannons were directed at Philippine ships, causing injuries to personnel and damage to vessels. In October, Chinese vessels rammed and blocked Philippine civilian and Coast Guard ships, continuing the pattern of harassment in Philippine-claimed waters.
In addition to these maritime confrontations, tensions also spilled into the air. In August, Chinese fighter jets dropped flares in the path of a Philippine Air Force patrol aircraft, further straining relations between the two nations. The Philippine government continued to assert its territorial claims, with Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro Jr. defending the country’s rights to protect its waters, especially after the announcement of the Philippines’ plans to acquire advanced missile systems from the United States to bolster defense capabilities.
Despite these provocations, the Philippines remained resolute in safeguarding its sovereignty. Through improvements in equipment, training, facilities, and strengthened alliances, the Philippines strives to maintain its sovereignty. The year’s incidents highlighted the persistent challenges faced by the country in maintaining control over its exclusive economic zone and the waters surrounding its islands.
The Philippines’ continued efforts to defend its rights in the West Philippine Sea were a defining aspect of its foreign policy and military strategy in 2024.
