The U.S. Typhon system is capable of firing Tomahawk Land Attack Missiles, which can carry a nuclear payload over 1,500 miles.

Eliana Atienza said she was a victim of "administrative violence" after being placed on mandatory leave by her university.

Aftershocks were felt in the hours immediately after the main quake and the region could experience more aftershocks for days to come.

Repeated high-seas confrontations have sparked fears about a larger conflict that could bring China and the United States into a collision.

"If we feel that there is enough ground to do so, we will [pursue charges]," Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said.

"It is unfortunate, but I am, myself, unsurprised. The Spokesperson's statements were 'on brand.' We, and the world, should not expect more."

The Philippines and its treaty ally, the United States, immediately condemned the latest confrontation near the Second Thomas Shoal.

“Extremists who wield violence against the innocent will always be regarded as enemies to our society,” the Philippine president said.

“Extremists who wield violence against the innocent will always be regarded as enemies to our society,” President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said.

The Philippines revoked Smartmatic's contract to operate its voting systems after allegations of corruption were leveled.