A Chinese coastguard ship fired a water cannon at a Philippine vessel, officials in Manila say. Photo: AP PHOTO

The Philippines and China have accused each other of responsibility for a maritime confrontation near disputed islands in the South China Sea, further escalating tensions in the resource-rich waterway.

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The Philippines alleged Chinese maritime forces used water cannon and rammed a Filipino vessel near Thitu Island, locally known as Pag-asa Island, describing the actions as a "clear threat," its coastguard said in a statement.

According to Manila's coastguard, three vessels

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