The Chinese government forced a Philippine navy gunboat to leave the waters of Scarborough Shoal.

According to an official statement, China’s coast guard took action to remove a Philippine navy gunboat from the waters near the Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea on Tuesday.

The coast guard took action, including removing the gunboat and managing its path, after attempts to persuade and warn the Chinese side were disregarded.

China asserts that it has unquestionable control over the shoal, known as Huangyan Island, and the surrounding waters.

The Philippine coastguard reported that they removed a 300-meter barrier installed by China that was blocking entry to the contested area, which China has claimed for more than ten years.

“We strongly urge the Philippines to cease its violation,” stated Gan Yu, spokesperson for the coast guard. He also noted that this action is a serious breach of international law.

The event happened one day after China cautioned the Philippines about engaging in more “provocative” actions at an atoll in the South China Sea. China stated that these actions have violated their territorial sovereignty, gone against international law, and disrupted peace and stability in the region.

Relations between the Philippines and China have worsened recently, largely due to efforts made by its president to strengthen defense connections with the United States. This includes granting increased access to Filipino troops for training and humanitarian reasons.