This is the moment a China Coast Guard (CCG) ship sailed close to a Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) vessel in the South China Sea.

Footage shows CCG vessel 21612 accelerating and appearing to block the path of the PCG BRP Cabra as both ships travelled some 130 miles off Zambales, on April 14.

A female skipper issued a radio challenge to warn the Chinese ship against carrying out 'dangerous manoeuvres'.

PCG spokesman Commodore Jay Tarriela said in a statement on April 15: 'Yesterday, during an engagement with CCG-21612 in the vicinity of 132.97 WSW off Capon Grande, Zambales, or approximately 36.35 S off BDM, the Chinese Coast Guard increased its speed and maneuvered past the port side of the BRP Cabra, dangerously blocking its navigation route.

'This incident highlights the CCG's non-compliance with the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGS) and reflects a blatant disregard for safety at sea.

'While coast guards are typically recognised as enforcers of maritime safety and humanitarian organizations, the actions of the People's Republic of China diverge from these norms. Their illegal patrols jeopardise the lives of fishermen and legitimate law enforcement agencies alike.'

Expansionist China currently lays claim over almost the entire South China Sea, one of the world's busiest sea lanes. But a United Nations-backed tribunal in 2016 deemed its claims groundless.

The Communist rogue state - accused of genocide for its crimes against the Uyghur population, has been steadily increasing its influence in recent years through investment in developing countries.