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.

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 were anchored near the island early on Sunday as part of a government program to protect local fishermen when Chinese ships reportedly approached and used water cannon to intimidate them.

An hour later, a Chinese coastguard ship allegedly fired its water cannon directly at a Philippine vessel before ramming its stern,

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