MANILA — Chinese vessels harassed Filipino fishermen and challenged a Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) aircraft during a patrol over Scarborough Shoal (Bajo de Masinloc) in the West Philippine Sea on March 18, 2026, escalating tensions in the disputed waters.

According to reports, Filipino fishing boats operating near the shoal were shadowed and subjected to dangerous maneuvers by ships belonging to the China Coast Guard and Chinese maritime militia. Videos shared with ABS-CBN News showed local fishers being blocked and intimidated outside the shoal, a traditional fishing ground well within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone.

PCG spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Rear Admiral Jay Tarriela confirmed that a PCG Cessna Caravan conducting a maritime domain awareness flight was radio-challenged by both the People’s Liberation Army Navy and Air Force. Tarriela noted that while Chinese naval ships have previously issued radio warnings, this was among the first instances where a Chinese military aircraft also challenged a Philippine patrol plane.

“What was supposed to be a routine patrol turned into a high-stakes encounter when Chinese forces attempted to assert control over the area,” Tarriela said, emphasizing that the PCG aircraft continued its mission despite the challenges.

The Department of Foreign Affairs is expected to lodge a diplomatic protest following the incident, which comes amid repeated warnings from Manila about China’s aggressive actions in the West Philippine Sea. Filipino fishermen have long complained of harassment at Scarborough Shoal, with many forced to abandon their catch due to intimidation by larger Chinese vessels.

Scarborough Shoal, located about 120 nautical miles off Zambales, has been a flashpoint in the maritime dispute since China seized control of the area in 2012. Despite a 2016 arbitral ruling affirming the Philippines’ rights within its exclusive economic zone, Chinese ships have continued to block Filipino access to the shoal.

The latest confrontation underscores the growing risks faced by Filipino fishers and PCG personnel in asserting the country’s maritime rights. Analysts warn that China’s increasingly aggressive tactics, including the use of both naval and air assets, signal a broader strategy to consolidate control over contested waters.

As the government prepares its response, officials reiterated their commitment to protect Filipino fishermen and uphold sovereignty in the West Philippine Sea. The incident is expected to intensify calls for stronger regional cooperation and more assertive action against China’s maritime activities.

This development highlights the fragile situation in the West Philippine Sea, where routine fishing and patrols are now frequently disrupted by confrontations with Chinese forces, raising concerns about stability and security in the region.