China Rams Philippine Coast Guard Ship Near Second Thomas Shoal

Chinese vessels rammed a Philippine Coast Guard ship and a military-run supply boat near Second Thomas Shoal on October 17, disclosed publicly by the Philippines on October 22. The ramming incident was among the most aggressive Chinese actions to date, escalating from water cannons to direct physical contact with Philippine vessels. China accused Philippine vessels of 'deliberately' approaching and refused to accept Philippine characterization of the incident.