A significant maritime incident occurred on Monday, intensifying tensions between China and the Philippines. A collision between a Chinese Coast Guard vessel and a Philippine navy boat has led to conflicting narratives from the two nations, highlighting the ongoing territorial disputes in the region. The collision took place as the Philippine naval vessel attempted a resupply run to the BRP Sierra Madre, an antiquated tank landing vessel grounded intentionally on the Second Thomas Shoal since 1999. This vessel, originally constructed for the US Navy during World War II, now serves as a critical outpost for the Philippine military.

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