MANILA—A China Coast Guard (CCG) vessel collided with a People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLA Navy) warship near Bajo de Masinloc on Monday, after reportedly performing a risky maneuver while pursuing a Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) vessel.

The PCG said CCG vessel 3104, chasing BRP Suluan at high speed about 10.5 nautical miles east of Bajo de Masinloc, approached from the Philippine vessel’s starboard quarter before striking PLA Navy ship 164. The collision caused “substantial damage” to the CCG vessel’s forecastle, rendering it unseaworthy.

PCG personnel offered immediate assistance to the Chinese crew, including man-overboard recovery and medical aid for any injured personnel.

Earlier that day, the PCG had deployed BRP Teresa Magbanua, BRP Suluan, and MV Pamamalakaya to distribute fuel and supplies to around 35 Filipino fishing vessels as part of the “Kadiwa Para sa Bagong Bayaning Mangingisda” program. During the operation, PCG ships encountered blocking maneuvers from other vessels, and MRRV 4406 narrowly evaded a water cannon blast.

The PCG said it escorted the fishermen to safety and reaffirmed its commitment to securing maritime operations, while wishing for the recovery of the affected Chinese personnel.