Philippines says Chinese water cannon hit government ship near disputed reef

The Philippines accused the China Coast Guard of hitting a Filipino government vessel with a water cannon near Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea on Friday, during an attempt to resupply Filipino fishermen. The Philippine Coast Guard said a Chinese vessel made what it called a reckless manoeuvre, came within seven metres of the BRP Datu Paduhinog and hit the ship with a water cannon blast. It said the vessel temporarily lost satellite connectivity. The coast guard said two other ships, the BRP Datu Cabaylo and the BRP Cape San Agustin, were also targeted with water cannon but were not hit. China Coast Guard said it took necessary measures, including the use of a water cannon, to drive away the Philippine ships. Spokesperson Jiang Lue warned the Philippines to stop what China called infringing and provocative actions. China's foreign ministry said the Philippine vessels deliberately intruded first. Foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said China's actions were professional and standard. The incident was the third confrontation between China and the Philippines this week. Earlier in the week, the Philippine government accused Chinese sailors of hitting a Filipino sailor over the head with a baton during a clash at Second Thomas Shoal, requiring a medical evacuation. Beijing said that incident was instigated by Philippine personnel. On Thursday, the Philippines accused the China Coast Guard of using water cannon and dangerous manoeuvres at Scarborough. Beijing claims most of the South China Sea, including Scarborough Shoal, despite an international ruling that its claim has no legal basis. Both China and the Philippines said this week that they were working towards completing a Code of Conduct for the South China Sea by the end of the year. The latest incident happened as top diplomats wrapped up a Southeast Asian regional forum in Manila.