RI's Neighbour 'Rages' Accusing China of Being Provocative: Here's What Happened

Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia - The Philippine government has accused a Chinese Navy vessel of directing its fire-control radar at one of its ships in the South China Sea on Friday (20/3/2026). Manila described the action as a “provocative” step that risks escalating tensions in the region.

According to AFP, the fire-control radar is a specialised system capable of providing precise target coordinates for a ship’s weapon systems. The use of this radar is considered a serious signal in military situations as it directly relates to firing readiness.

Such incidents occur amid frequent clashes between Chinese and Philippine vessels in the strategically important South China Sea. Beijing claims nearly the entire area, although international rulings state that the claim has no legal basis.

The Philippine Navy stated that the latest incident took place on 7 March near the fish-rich Sabina Shoal. The location is about 150 kilometres from Palawan Island, the nearest Philippine territory to the disputed area.

The BRP Miguel Malvar was reported to be on patrol when the Chinese Navy vessel with hull number 622 approached. The vessel then directed its fire-control radar towards the Philippine ship.

Philippine military officials deemed the action dangerous as it could lead to misinterpretations at sea. They stated that the step creates unnecessary risks in an already tense situation.

As of now, the Chinese Embassy in Manila has not responded to the accusations. This incident adds to the long list of tensions between the two countries in the disputed area.

Previously, the two countries have also mutually claimed sovereignty over Scarborough Shoal, a traditional fishing ground for Filipino fishermen but now controlled by China. Tensions escalated after Manila accused Chinese vessels of ramming its government ship in October following the use of water cannons in the Spratly Islands area.