China Says It Rescued Philippine Crew From Cargo Ship Near Scarborough Shoal

One of 13 Filipino fishers rescued by the China Coast Guard on January 23, 2025 near the disputed Scarborough Shoal. Image via the China Coast Guard.

China and the Philippines said on Friday they launched rescue operations after receiving reports of a sinking cargo ship near the Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea that was carrying 21 Philippine crew members.

Scarborough Shoal is one of Asia’s most contested maritime features and a frequent flashpoint in disputes, particularly between China and the Philippines, over sovereignty and fishing rights.

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