Philippines accuses China of dangerous manoeuvres near Scarborough Shoal - Reuters

MANILA (Reuters) -The Philippines’ coast guard (PCG) on Sunday accused China of “dangerous and blocking” manoeuvres while its vessel patrolled near Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea this month.

Manila’s coast guard said in a statement that on a nine-day patrol near the shoal by its 97-metre (318-foot) vessel BRP Teresa Magbanua, four Chinese coast guard (CCG) vessels had shadowed the boat more than 40 times.

Four Chinese maritime militia vessels were also present near the shoal, the PCG said.

Located within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ), Scarborough shoal is also claimed by China, making it one of Asia’s most contested maritime features and a flashpoint for flare-ups.

The PCG said its vessel was in the area to protect Filipino fishermen “from further harassment” in their traditional fishing ground.