Chinese coast guard ships and a navy helicopter disrupted a Philippine fisheries vessels' scientific survey in the South China Sea, prompting the cancellation of the operation. The incident occurred near Sandy Cay, a contested area in the Spratlys archipelago. China has long claimed sovereignty over most of the South China Sea, leading to tensions with neighboring countries like the Philippines, Vietnam, and Malaysia.
The Chinese vessels approached the Philippine ships, forcing evasive maneuvers to avoid a collision. A Chinese navy helicopter flew low over the smaller Philippine boats, compelling the survey to be called off. China alleged that the Philippine ships entered the waters without permission and attempted unauthorized activities on the cay.
