On August 19, 2024, at approximately 3:25 am, the Philippine Coast Guard ship MRRV-4410 unexpectedly veered to the right and crashed into the Chinese Coast Guard Vessel 21551. Earlier that day, both MRRV-4410 and another vessel, MMRV-4411, were reported to have illegally entered waters close to Xianbin Jiao. In response, the China Coast Guard enforced legal measures against the intruding ships.

A spokesperson for the China Coast Guard confirmed that the Philippine vessel MRRV-9701, which had been unlawfully anchored at Xianbin Jiao since April, finally departed around 2 pm on the previous Saturday. This illegal anchoring was seen as a serious violation of China’s territorial integrity and a breach of international agreements meant to promote peace in the region. The Chinese authorities stated they had taken necessary control measures against the vessel while the Philippines attempted unsuccessful resupply efforts.

Analysts observed that China’s assertive actions thwarted the Philippines' attempts to reinforce its presence. According to maritime policy expert Ding Duo, diplomatic channels facilitated communication between the two nations, further easing tensions. He noted that recent stabilizations in China-U.S. relations might have indirectly influenced the situation.

Experts warned that if the Philippines refrains from further provocations, a temporary calm could prevail in the waters surrounding Xianbin Jiao. However, Ding emphasized the Philippines’ unpredictable history concerning the South China Sea dilemma. Should the Philippines initiate new provocations, China is prepared to respond decisively.

Liu, the China Coast Guard spokesperson, urged the Philippines to halt any actions that may escalate tensions and to collaborate with China to uphold established agreements regarding the South China Sea. Reinforcing China’s position, he asserted that China possesses undeniable sovereignty over the Nansha Islands, including Xianbin Jiao, and would maintain law enforcement activities to protect its interests in these waters. Meanwhile, Chen Xidi from the China Institute for Marine Affairs remarked that the withdrawal from Xianbin Jiao should symbolize the Philippines' commitment to a peaceful resolution rather than a fleeting pause in hostilities.