Tensions rise as Philippine Coast Guard and Chinese warship narrowly avoid collision in South China Sea.

Two Philippine Coast Guard cutters patrolling the South China Sea encountered a Chinese warship and reported aggressive maneuvers by China Coast Guard vessels, as well as identifying over 100 Chinese Maritime Militia ships operating in the area. The Chinese warship challenged the Philippine Coast Guard vessels and directed them to leave the area, warning that a failure to comply could lead to a problem. The Philippine President called for the final adoption of a Philippines-China direct communication line in the wake of the near collision between the Philippine and Chinese ships.