China accuses PH aircraft of 'illegal' intrusion over Bajo de Masinloc
A Chinese J-16 fighter approached a Philippine C-208 aircraft conducting a routine maritime patrol near Bajo de Masinloc on 3 October.
Incident Details
On 3 October, a Chinese J-16 fighter repeatedly approached a Philippine C-208 aircraft near Bajo de Masinloc. The Philippine aircraft was on a routine maritime patrol when it encountered the J-16.
The AFP reported that the J-16 maneuvered ahead of and around the C-208, positioning itself within the aircraft’s wake.
Chinese Statement
Senior Capt. Zhai Shichen, spokesperson for the People’s Liberation Army Southern Theater Command, said the Philippine aircraft illegally intruded into China’s Huangyan Dao airspace.
Philippine View
The AFP described the incident as part of a recurring pattern of unsafe and coercive behavior against Philippine vessels and aircraft.