This is the dramatic moment the China Coast Guard (CCG) fired water cannons at a Philippine government ship, injuring one crew member.

The Philippine vessel was delivering supplies to fishermen when it was reportedly attacked by two CCG ships near the contested Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea.

Footage shows the BRP Datu Gumbay Piang, operated by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), being hit by the jet of water during the humanitarian mission on September 16, as another Chinese ship simultaneously directed a water cannon from the opposite side.

Philippine Coast Guard spokesman Commodore Jay Tarriela said: 'This aggressive action lasted for about 29 minutes, resulting in significant damage including shattered glass from the aft window of the bridge, damage to the captain's cabin partitions, and a short circuit affecting electrical outlets and five outdoor air conditioning units.

'One personnel from DA-BFAR sustained injuries due to the shattered glass caused by the water cannon.'

A Chinese maritime militia vessel then attempted 'hazardous maneuvers' but the Datu Gumbay Piang evaded further damage and rejoined other government ships in the area.

Tarriela added: 'Utilising the seamanship skills of its crew, the BRP Datu Gumbay Piang successfully maneuvered away from the CCG vessels and rejoined nine other DA-BFAR vessels in the area, continuing its mission to provide fuel and supplies to Filipino fishermen.'

The encounter occurred a week after China approved a proposal to establish a 3,500-hectare nature reserve at the disputed shoal.

China's State Council claimed the move was an 'important measure for maintaining the diversity, stability, and sustainability of the natural ecosystem' in the flashpoint.

However, Philippine officials slammed it as Beijing's attempt to tighten control over the disputed feature.

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.