Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative (CSIS)

Force in Play

As of May 2026: Tracks gray-zone patterns and escalation risks

A month ago, China's coast guard escalated beyond shoving resupply convoys. It blasted water cannons at small Philippine fishing boats near Sabina (Escoda) Shoal, damaged two vessels, and left three fishermen injured. Chinese craft allegedly cut anchor lines and boxed out rescuers.

Updated May 15