THE "David and Goliath" episode on April 20, 2023 was followed by another in just over two months. On June 30, Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) vessels Barko ng Republika ng Pilipinas Malapascua and escort BRP Malabrigo, which assisted the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in the resupply and redeployment of personnel, were again subjected to harassment and "dangerous maneuvers" by China Coast Guard (CCG) vessels.

The CCG ships with bow numbers 5201 and 4203 came as close as 100 yards and blocked their path, PCG reports said. And if not for the skillful navigation by Filipino Coast Guard ship captains, the vessels could have collided. The mission was eventually completed amid the tension, but reports did not say how exactly except by saying the vessels were able to safely return to their stations and lived to relate their experience, which has been gradually becoming commonplace.

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