Marcos did not provide details on the actions to be taken, but emphasized that Filipinos would not back down.

He also stated that the Philippines seeks no conflict with China but will not be silenced or submissive in the face of illegal and aggressive actions.

This is the latest sign of escalating disputes between China and the Philippines in the contested waters, which have resulted in minor collisions and strained relations.

The South China Sea, a vital waterway for global commerce and oil transit, is a source of disputes among China, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Taiwan, and Brunei.

During the Holy Week, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos issued a warning against Chinese actions in the area.

China's defense ministry accused the Philippines of spreading misinformation and escalating the situation.

Both sides claimed they were protecting their sovereignty.

China expressed commitment to managing maritime differences, while the Philippines reached out to international allies for support.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos met with defense and national security officials to discuss ways to secure the Second Thomas Shoal, a disputed area in the South China Sea where Filipino and Chinese forces have clashed.

The officials recommended using faster military vessels instead of chartered civilian boats for supply deliveries to the shoal.

Marcos has not confirmed if he approved this recommendation.

Tensions escalated on Saturday when Chinese coast guard used water cannons, injuring Filipino navy crewmen and damaging their supply boat near the shoal.

A cannon blast from a Chinese vessel threw a Filipino crewman off balance but he avoided falling into the sea.

The Philippine government protested China's actions and summoned a Chinese diplomat.

China accused Filipino vessels of intruding into its territorial waters and warned Manila not to provoke further action.

The US condemned China's actions and reiterated its commitment to defend the Philippines under a mutual defense treaty if attacked in the South China Sea.

Beijing has requested that the US avoid involvement in the South China Sea dispute, which it considers an Asian issue.

However, the US has announced its intention to continue Navy patrols in the region, citing international law and the need to protect freedom of navigation and overflight.