MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines and China summoned each other's ambassadors on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, following a clash at Ayungin Shoal in the South China Sea. The incident prompted condemnation of Beijing by Manila's allies, including the United States and Japan.
According to the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs, the clash occurred on July 20 when Chinese Coast Guard vessels used water cannons to prevent Filipino supply boats from reaching the BRP Sierra Madre, a Philippine Navy ship grounded at Ayungin Shoal. The Philippines summoned Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian to protest the actions, while China summoned Philippine Ambassador Jaime FlorCruz to demand an explanation.
China claims sovereignty over almost the entire South China Sea, including Ayungin Shoal, which is part of the disputed Spratly Islands. The United States reaffirmed its commitment to its Mutual Defense Treaty with the Philippines, calling the Chinese actions destabilizing. Japan also expressed solidarity with Manila.
Both sides have called for restraint and dialogue to de-escalate tensions. The Philippine government stated it remains committed to peaceful resolution under international law, including the 2016 Permanent Court of Arbitration ruling that invalidated China's claims.
