Filipino soldiers had to use their bare hands to fight off Chinese coast guards with swords, a general said

• Filipino soldiers defended themselves against an attack by Chinese coast guard, a general said.
• One soldier reportedly lost a thumb while others were injured and boats were damaged.
• Beijing denied responsibility, but US and Philippines officials criticized China.

Filipino soldiers had to defend themselves with bare hands against Chinese coast guard armed with swords and knives, according to the Philippines.

General Romeo Brawner, the Philippines' top military commander, criticized China for what he described as "reckless and aggressive" behavior while the Philippines navy and coast guard were delivering supplies to Filipino soldiers in the disputed South China Sea on Monday.