5 days ago
Philippines says coast guard plane approached dangerously by Chinese fighter jet
The Philippines' coast guard says a Chinese fighter jet came close to one of its aircraft over the country's exclusive economic zone in the South China Sea.
The coast guard said the Chinese jet approached the Philippine plane, which was on patrol over areas around Scarborough Shoal on Wednesday to ensure the safety of fishing boats. The shoal is under China's effective control.
Philippine officials said the Chinese jet flew around the plane for about 20 minutes and came within roughly 60 meters of it. They said the Chinese side harassed the coast guard aircraft and endangered its safety.
The officials also said two US Navy vessels, including the guided-missile destroyer USS Higgins, were navigating around the shoal at that time in line with international law.
On Monday, two Chinese ships collided with each other in the waters while pursuing Philippine ships.
