A press release on August 31, 2024 from the U.S. Department of State condemned the People’s Republic of China (PRC) for its aggressive actions against Philippine maritime operations at Sabina Shoal on August 31, where a Chinese Coast Guard vessel collided with a Philippine Coast Guard vessel.
The press release stated that the incident, part of a series of escalatory actions by China, threatens navigation freedoms and violates international law.
The press release also reaffirmed the U.S.’s commitment to defend Philippine vessels under the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty and called for China to align its behavior with international standards.
