A photo from March 2024 shows a China coast guard vessel sailing near the Philippine military chartered vessel Unaizah.
Filipino soldiers defended themselves against an attack by Chinese coast guard, a general said.
One soldier reportedly lost a thumb while others were injured and boats were damaged.
Filipino soldiers had to defend themselves with bare hands against Chinese coast guard armed with swords and knives, according to the Philippines.
The Filipino army shared photos of the incident, showing damaged boats and Chinese personnel with blades.
A Philippine Coast Guard commodore, meanwhile, said that he believed China was trying to "provoke trouble.".
However, Beijing denied taking "direct measures" against Filippino soldiers, and claimed the Philippines was responsible for the incident. »