Philippines issues 'strongest protest' after Chinese water cannon assault on navy boat

The Philippines expressed its “strongest protest" against China over a water cannon assault by the Chinese coast guard against the Filipino navy in the disputed South China Sea.

The repeated high-seas confrontations since last year have sparked fears of a larger conflict that could put China and the United States on a collision course. The U.S. has warned repeatedly that it’s obligated to defend the Philippines — its oldest treaty ally in Asia — if Filipino forces, ships or aircraft come under an armed attack, including in the South China Sea.

The United States, the European Union, Japan, Australia and about 16 other countries have expressed support to the Philippines and the rule of law, according to the Department of Foreign Affairs in Manila.