China Coast Guard Rams Philippine BFAR Vessel at Sabina Shoal

On September 18, 2026, a Chinese Coast Guard ship rammed a Philippine government fisheries ship near Sabina Shoal in the West Philippine Sea. The ship struck was BRP Datu Magat Salamat, operated by the Philippine Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, which was carrying fuel for Filipino fishermen in the area.

Manila identified the Chinese ship as CCG-21585 and described the contact as a deliberate ramming. Beijing said the Philippine ship bore responsibility for the incident. No crew injuries were reported.

Sabina Shoal lies within the Philippines' claimed exclusive economic zone. Confrontations between Chinese and Philippine ships there have become routine, centered on Philippine resupply and patrol missions. Philippine waters have also seen other maritime incidents this month, including a fire aboard MV June Aster off Coron, Palawan.

The Philippine coast guard said the BFAR ship sustained damage in the collision. Both governments issued statements after the incident.