China confirms 2 sailors died in 2025 South China Sea collision

Beijing has officially acknowledged the tragic loss of two Chinese sailors in a collision that occurred in the contested South China Sea. This confirmation came nearly a year after the incident, which took place on August 11, 2025. The conflict arose when a Chinese navy vessel collided with a Chinese coast guard ship while attempting to pursue a Philippine patrol boat near a disputed shoal.

Initial reports from Manila indicated a confrontation, but the Chinese Coast Guard did not disclose details about the collision or resulting casualties.

In response, the People’s Armed Police Force commended four individuals — including Coast Guard sailors Yi Xinyu and Cheng Long — by awarding them the title of "martyrs" for their "steadfast political convictions, exemplary deeds, and outstanding achievements." According to the China Martyrs Network, Yi Xinyu and Cheng Long perished on August 11, 2025, during a "rights defense operation" in the South China Sea.

Yi Xinyu, who was 21 years old, and Cheng Long, aged 25, made the ultimate sacrifice while defending their maritime sovereignty.

The designation of "martyr" grants their families special housing and medical support, among other benefits. However, it remains unclear when these sailors were officially recognized with this designation. Territorial disputes in the South China Sea have frequently led to clashes between China and the Philippines, with both sides often claiming various parts of the disputed region as their own.

In July, Filipino and Chinese sailors engaged in their first serious altercation in months, prompting both nations to summon each other's ambassadors.