Beijing reports 2 deaths nearly year after Philippine vessel chase in South China Sea — reportChinese vessels are seen colliding while tailing the Philippine patrol vessel BRP Suluan, August 11, 2025. MANILA, Philippines — China has confirmed the deaths of two coast guard sailors nearly a year after they were killed in a collision involving Chinese vessels during a confrontation with a Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) ship in the disputed South China Sea. The China Coast Guard confirmed a confrontation with Philippine vessels at the time but did not mention the collision or report any deaths or injuries. Profiles of Yi and Cheng on China's China Martyrs Network said both died during a "rights defense operation" in the South China Sea, according to AFP. China claims most of the South China Sea, including waters and features also claimed by the Philippines and other countries in the region.