Philippine Sailor Injured in South China Sea Clash as US Reaffirms Defense Treaty

A July 20, 2026 clash at the disputed Second Thomas Shoal left a Philippine sailor injured after a Chinese coastguard member struck him with a wooden baton, Manila said. Beijing claimed Philippine vessels rammed a Chinese patrol boat. Secretary of State Rubio responded: "We intend to live up to our treaty obligations," reaffirming the US-Philippines mutual defense pact.