What recent incident escalated tensions between China and the Philippines in the South China Sea?

In a dramatic escalation of tensions in the South China Sea, China has challenged the Philippines with provocative military maneuvers near Scarborough Shoal. The Philippine Coast Guard released images documenting a Chinese Navy helicopter flying dangerously close - mere meters away - from a Philippine surveillance aircraft that was carrying journalists monitoring the disputed area. This incident represents the latest in a series of confrontational actions by China in the contested waters, further straining diplomatic relations between the two countries. The proximity of the Chinese military helicopter to the Philippine surveillance aircraft posed significant safety risks and demonstrates China's increasingly aggressive stance regarding its territorial claims in the region.