China has officially confirmed that two coastguard personnel died in a vessel collision in the South China Sea last year, marking the first time Beijing has acknowledged fatalities from the incident.
State media reported the honouring of the two officers on Thursday, providing a rare glimpse into the human toll of the ongoing territorial dispute with the Philippines.
The admission follows a series of escalating confrontations in the region.
Recent reports indicate that Chinese coastguard vessels have deployed water cannons against Filipino government ships near the disputed Scarborough Shoal, marking the third direct clash between the two nations in recent months.
The incident involving the two fatalities occurred during a chase sequence, highlighting the physical risks faced by personnel on both sides.
The confirmation of deaths adds a new layer of gravity to the diplomatic standoff.