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Chinese coastguards filmed attacking Philippine sailors with oars at Second Thomas Shoal
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The Economist reports that China has escalated aggressive actions against U.S. allies in the Asia-Pacific region, including Australia, the Philippines, and Japan. On July 20, 2026, Chinese coastguards were filmed using oars to attack Philippine sailors aboard a navy vessel at Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea, an atoll claimed by both countries. The Philippine defense secretary, Gilbert Teodoro Jr., publicly complained about the incident, stating that China is 'making fools of us.' Two Filipino sailors were hospitalized after the brawl. The article analyzes China's strategic calculus, suggesting Beijing believes the Trump administration will tolerate or overlook such bullying of American allies, emboldening its assertive territorial claims and military posturing in the region.
Source report
China bets that Donald Trump won’t mind it bullying American allies
It has stepped up its abuse of Australia, the Philippines and Japan
Jul 30th 2026 | Singapore and Tokyo | 5 min read
Photograph: Reuters
“THEY ARE making fools of us,” Gilbert Teodoro junior, the Philippines’ defence secretary, complained to reporters in Manila on July 23rd. Three days earlier, Chinese coastguards had been filmed using oars to batter Philippine sailors aboard a navy vessel at Second Thomas Shoal, an atoll claimed by both countries in the South China Sea. After a brief brawl, the Filipinos, in shorts and T-shirts, repulsed the Chinese coastguards clad in navy uniforms and orange high-viz vests. Two of the Filipinos were later hospitalised.
From the August 1st 2026 edition
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Philippines and China Clash at Second Thomas Shoal, Sailor Injured