https://www.cnn.com/2023/11/10/asia/south-china-sea-philippines-water-cannon-intl-hnk/index.html
The Philippines has accused Chinese ships of firing water cannons and making dangerous maneuvers on ships resupplying a Philippine military outpost. This is the most recent event that has caused a conflict between the two countries. It is reported that Philippine officials stated that China fired water cannons to alter a vessel’s course. The Philippines also said that 2 of their ships had been harrassed by the Chinese coast guard. These incidents are quite common as these countries share the same waterways. China and the Philippines have been disputing over who gets control over the Second Thomas Shoal, an area between the two countries. Both countries have claimed that their territory is being infringed on.
This is significant because these incidents have been going on for a while between the two countries. They have been fighting over the territory, and it has progressed to the use of military tactics. The escalation of these incidents could lead to violent and dangerous actions taken by one of these states. The Philippines has felt that China is putting Filipino lives at risk by their actions. The fear of violent actions against Filipino soldiers could cause the Philippines to retaliate violently. The Philippines is a US ally, and if China progresses with more intense measures, the United States could potentially get involved. The South China Sea has been determined as a likely point for international conflict, so other Western Powers are watching this situation closely.
This relates to international relations because it deals with geography and the power that is gained based on your geographical territory. Many conflicts have started based on how land is divided up, and the Philippines/China conflict is very similar. Each country wants to gain some power by adding to its territory, but neither country is backing down. It also deals with international relations because other allies and outside parties are observing to see how the conflict will play out. Can it be solved diplomatically? Or must they use violence to solve the problem? These are all questions that allies of these states are asking, and they must be prepared for whatever outcome does occur.