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Recent tensions between China and the Philippines have escalated following a close encounter between a Chinese military helicopter and a Philippine fisheries aircraft over the disputed Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea. Philippine Foreign Secretary Enrique Manalo described the Chinese military's actions as "reckless" and "unprofessional," expressing deep concern over the incident.

In response, U.S. President Donald Trump has vowed to take action against China's "dangerous" maneuvers. U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines, MaryKay Carlson, condemned the incident, urging China to "refrain from coercive actions and settle its disputes peacefully in accordance with international law."

The Scarborough Shoal remains a contentious area, with both China and the Philippines asserting sovereignty. Despite a 2016 arbitration ruling invalidating China's expansive claims in the South China Sea, Beijing continues to assert control over the region.

In a show of solidarity, U.S. and Philippine fighter aircraft recently conducted joint patrols over the disputed shoal. This marked the first such exercise since President Trump's return to office, aiming to enhance operational coordination and reinforce defense commitments between the two nations.

The situation underscores the ongoing geopolitical tensions in the South China Sea and highlights the complex dynamics between regional actors and global powe