Fatal Collision in South China Sea: Philippines Investigates Deaths of Fishermen
Three Filipino fishermen were killed after their fishing boat was allegedly struck by a "foreign" vessel near Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea. The Philippine coast guard is investigating the incident, which has further heightened tensions in the disputed region. The South China Sea is a vital waterway for international trade, but it is also a major flashpoint due to competing territorial claims. China asserts ownership over most of the sea, despite an international court ruling against its claims. The area around Scarborough Shoal has been a source of frequent clashes between Philippine and Chinese vessels.