China’s coast guard deployed water cannons against a Filipino government vessel near the disputed Scarborough Shoal on Friday, Manila reported.
The incident marks the third direct confrontation between the two nations in the South China Sea this week, signaling a sharp escalation in maritime tensions.
The use of force follows a pattern of aggressive maneuvers by Chinese authorities in the area.
On Thursday, Manila accused Beijing of using dangerous tactics to block aid vessels delivering supplies to Filipino fishermen.
A sailor was injured during a violent altercation in that prior encounter, underscoring the physical risks facing personnel in the zone.
For markets, the recurring clashes at Scarborough Shoal introduce renewed uncertainty regarding shipping routes and energy security in the Western Pacific.