Manila has formally protested an incident in the South China Sea in which a Chinese Coast Guard vessel was accused of using a laser weapon against a Philippine Coast Guard ship. The alleged confrontation occurred in February 2023 near the Second Thomas Shoal, a contested feature in the Spratly Islands.
According to Philippine officials, the laser was directed at the crew of the BRP Gabriela Silang, a patrol vessel, causing temporary vision impairment and endangering the safety of those on board. The incident added to rising tensions in the region, where Manila and Beijing have overlapping claims.
The Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs confirmed that a diplomatic protest was filed over the incident, calling it a violation of international law and an act that could escalate hostilities. The government underscored its commitment to peaceful resolution but warned that such actions undermine stability in the area.
The China Coast Guard has not publicly commented on the specific incident, though Beijing maintains that its maritime law enforcement operations are lawful and aimed at safeguarding China's territorial claims. China claims sovereignty over the entire South China Sea, including Second Thomas Shoal, while the Philippines asserts rights under a 2016 international arbitration ruling that rejected Beijing's claims.
The incident is among several recent confrontations between Philippine and Chinese vessels in the region. Analysts say the use of lasers, which can cause eye damage, represents a risky escalation in maritime disputes. The Philippine government has urged China to exercise restraint and to respect international norms to prevent further accidents or conflicts.