Philippine Coast Guard official reports grounding of suspected Chinese militia vessel in Spratly Islands

"The said Chinese vessel was likely driven into the shallow area due to adverse sea conditions, characterised by wave heights of two to three metres and strong winds," said Tarriela.

Coast guard personnel stationed on Thitu Island (known officially in the Philippines as Pag-Asa Island), "reached out to the grounded vessel to evaluate its condition and render support for its removal, aiming to prevent additional harm to the coral reef and territorial waters of Pag-Asa," Tarriela continued. "Unfortunately, the vessel did not respond to inquiries."