A Philippine Navy vessel was forced to take evasive action to avoid a potential collision after a Chinese People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) frigate performed "dangerous maneuvers" near Pag-asa Island on March 25, 2026.

According to a statement released by the Western Command (WESCOM) of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the BRP Benguet (LS507) was conducting routine maritime operations when it was intercepted by the PLAN 532 missile frigate.

The Chinese vessel reportedly closed in and passed at a "dangerously close distance," an act Philippine officials described as both unsafe and unprofessional.

‘Violation of International Regulations’

WESCOM officials emphasized that the maneuvers executed by the PLAN vessel constitute a clear violation of the Convention on the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs).

“Such dangerous maneuvers are provocative and constitute a clear violation of the Convention on the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs),” the statement said.

Despite the proximity of the two warships, the crew of the BRP Benguet maintained a "measured and decisive" response, successfully preventing a physical collision and ensuring no personnel were harmed.

This encounter follows a separate high-tension incident at Escoda Shoal, where another Philippine Navy vessel was reportedly targeted by a fire control radar from a different Chinese warship.

The AFP has previously warned of a specific tactical "playbook" employed by Chinese forces in the West Philippine Sea.

"WESCOM calls on the PLA Navy to adhere to established international rules and norms to prevent incidents at sea," the command stated.

The Philippine military reaffirmed its commitment to continuing lawful maritime operations with "professionalism and resolve" to exercise the country’s sovereignty and jurisdiction within its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).