Government forces have confronted Chinese vessels operating off the coast of Mindoro island, as tensions escalate over Chinese Coast Guard’s presence in disputed waters of the West Philippine Sea.

The confrontation occurred recently when Philippine patrol ship BRP Teresa Magbanua challenged Chinese Coast Guard vessel 3304 near Cabra Island, off Occidental Mindoro, demanding it leave Philippine waters. 

The area lies within the country’s internationally recognized 370km exclusive economic zone.

Chinese forces responded by deploying their largest coast guard ship, the 165-metre CCG 5901, which Philippine officials say has been conducting “intrusive patrols” since 2025 New Year’s Day.

The standoff took place as Philippine vessels were delivering supplies to Filipino fishing communities about 190km off the western coast.

Philippine officials report Chinese vessels have also been interfering with rescue operations, including a recent incident where Chinese ships shadowed attempts to recover a Filipino fisherman’s dead body.

In response, the Philippine government has increased its maritime patrols, deploying multiple vessels to protect Filipino fishing boats and maintain security operations.

The Philippines bases its maritime claims on the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which China is also party to. 

However, China asserts sovereignty over most of the South China Sea, including areas claimed by several Southeast Asian nations.

The Philippine Coast Guard said it will continue challenging unauthorized Chinese presence in Philippine waters, though experts warn the situation could escalate if Chinese vessels persist in ignoring warnings.