China and the Philippines are trading accusations after multiple confrontations in the South China Sea near the Spratly Islands, including the use of water cannons and a reported ramming of a Philippine government vessel, reported Fort Lauderdale's Maritime Executive.

The Philippine Coast Guard said China undertook "dangerous and provocative manoeuvres" during supply missions on October 8 and 11. On Saturday, China Coast Guard vessel 21559 allegedly fired water cannons and rammed the BRP Datu Pagbuaya, causing minor damage.

China's Foreign Ministry said the Philippines must cease its "provocations," claiming the incidents occurred within a Chinese marine reserve. The Philippines maintains the area lies within its exclusive economic zone and asserts its right to enforce environmental protections.

On October 13, two more Philippine supply missions were met with aggressive Chinese actions. Coast Guard spokesman Jay Tarriela said 11 China Coast Guard vessels, 11 militia ships, a PLA helicopter and three PLA Navy vessels attempted to block access near Thitu Island.

A second incident that day involved 10 China Coast Guard vessels, 10 militia ships, a PLA helicopter, two PLA Navy vessels and a high-speed response boat. Despite the use of water cannons, Philippine vessels BRP Melchora Aquino and BRP Cabra completed the mission with support from five Bureau of Fisheries patrol boats.

Admiral Ronniel Gil Gavan, Philippine Coast Guard Commandant, said his priority is protecting Filipino livelihoods and sovereignty. He pledged support for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr in defending national territory.

China said responsibility for the incidents lies with the Philippines and vowed to defend its territory. The US, UK, EU, Australia and Japan condemned China's actions and urged adherence to international law.