"Escalating Tensions: Philippines Vows Response to China's South China Sea Aggression"

The Philippines has vowed to respond proportionately to China's recent aggressive actions in the South China Sea, following an incident where Chinese coast guard vessels used water cannons against a Philippine resupply vessel. The Philippines has been repairing a naval vessel, the BRP Sierra Madre, stationed on the contested Second Thomas Shoal, leading to escalating tensions with China. The U.S. has condemned China's actions and reiterated its commitment to defend the Philippines under the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty, while China has asserted its determination to uphold its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights.