Tensions are escalating in the South China Sea as the Philippines and China engage in a series of confrontations. A 60 Minutes crew witnessed firsthand the danger when a Philippine Coast Guard ship was rammed by a Chinese vessel. The incident highlights the growing concerns over China's aggressive actions in the region, raising the possibility of US involvement.
An escalating series of clashes in the South China Sea between the Philippines and China could draw the U.S., which has a mutual defense treaty with the Philippines , into the conflict. A 60 Minutes crew got a close look at the tense situation when traveling on a Philippine Coast Guard ship that was rammed by the Chinese Coast Guard.China has repeatedly rammed Philippine ships and blasted them with water cannons over the last two years.
We've been here for, going on, two hours now, not moving,' Vega reported at the time. 'It's unclear whether we can even turn around and go back, if we wanted to. We're just completely surrounded by Chinese ships.'The Filipinos tried to negotiate a way out, but ultimately were forced to abandon the first stop of their mission. In their damaged boat, they had to take a long detour to their next supply drop, as Chinese ships followed closely.
South China Sea Philippines China US Involvement Conflict
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