Fate of Chinese crew unknown after dramatic collision in South China Sea

"The (China Coast Guard vessel) CCG 3104, which was chasing the (Filipino coast guard vessel) BRP Suluan at high speed, performed a risky manoeuvre from the (Philippine) vessel's starboard quarter, leading to the impact with the PLA (People's Liberation Army) Navy warship," Mr Tarriella said in a statement.

"This resulted in substantial damage to the CCG vessel's forecastle, rendering it unseaworthy."

At a later press briefing, Mr Tarriella said that crew members aboard the smaller Chinese vessel had been visible in its front section just before the collision.

He said the Chinese crew "never responded" to the Philippine ship's offer of assistance.

Gan Yu, a Chinese Coast Guard spokesperson, confirmed that a confrontation had taken place without mentioning the collision.

"The China Coast Guard took necessary measures in accordance with the law, including monitoring, pressing from the outside, blocking and controlling the Philippine vessels to drive them away," he said in a statement.

China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs did not confirm or deny the collision when asked about it by AFP.