Philippine Coast Guard personnel documents a Chinese Coast Guard vessel shadowing the Philippines’ resupply mission at Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea, March 5, 2024. — REUTERS

 – The actions by China’s coast guard against Philippine vessels near the Sabina Shoal in the South China Sea were illegal and “do not contribute to confidence building”, a Philippine maritime council official said on Tuesday.

The Philippines urges China to refrain from aggressive actions and adhere to international law, spokesperson Alexander Lopez told a briefing at the presidential palace. – Reuters