Chinese Fighter Jet Intercepts Philippine Patrol Aircraft Over Scarborough Shoal

OVER THE SCARBOROUGH SHOAL, South China Sea — A Chinese jet fighter intercepted a Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) patrol aircraft carrying journalists over the disputed Scarborough Shoal on Wednesday (Aug 13), Manila officials said.

PCG spokesperson Jay Tarriela said the fighter came within 200 feet (61 metres) of the small Cessna Caravan during a 20-minute encounter, manoeuvring behind, above, and alongside the plane. Chinese navy vessels below also radioed demands for the aircraft to “leave immediately.”

The interception occurred days after two Chinese vessels collided while allegedly trying to block a Philippine supply mission to Filipino fishermen in the shoal’s lagoon.

Located 200 km off the Philippines and within its exclusive economic zone, Scarborough Shoal remains a flashpoint in the South China Sea.

China maintains a constant presence at the reef despite a 2016 arbitration ruling invalidating its claims, which Beijing rejects. The US condemned China’s recent “reckless” actions. – Reuters/inquirer