Philippine, Chinese foreign ministers trade protests over South China Sea encounter

Philippine and Chinese foreign ministers met in Manila after a tense encounter this week in the South China Sea, centered on the Second Thomas Shoal.
Each side lodged strong protests: the Philippines says a crewman was struck with a baton, while China accuses Philippine personnel of ramming and attacking its vessels.
Both officials stressed the need to keep communication open and manage tensions, with China warning relations are at a “crossroads.”