Ships from China and the Philippines collided Monday morning near a disputed archipelago in the South China Sea, according to statements from the two nations, the latest in a series of maritime confrontations that have increased tensions in the vital waterway.

       Each side blamed the other for the collision, which occurred between a Chinese vessel and a Philippine supply ship near the Spratly Islands.

       The Chinese state media said the Philippine vessel had “ignored multiple stern warnings” and behaved “dangerously and in an unprofessional manner,” causing the boats to collide. The Philippines said that Chinese naval, coast guard and naval militia vessels had engaged in “illegal and aggressive actions,” including what it called “ramming.”

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