Philippines accuses Beijing of dangerously' firing flares near its aircraft in South China Sea

The National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea reported that a Chinese fighter jet engaged in irresponsible and dangerous manoeuvres, endangering a civilian BFAR aircraft flying maritime patrols. This included unprovoked harassment with flares launched as close as 15 metres from the patrol craft, escalating tensions between the Philippines and China over rights in the disputed South China Sea.

Details from the Philippine government's statement emphasized that the BFAR aircraft, during its routine patrols near Scarborough Shoal and Subi Reef, was consistently subjected to dangerous maneuvers by Chinese military personnel, which they characterized as an increased and aggressive military presence in the region. The Philippine government firmly asserted these actions pose a significant threat to both national sovereignty and security.

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