China’s Coast Guard Claims Philippine Vessel Delivered Supplies to Second Thomas Shoal, According to Reuters

BEIJING (Reuters) – On Friday, China’s coast guard reported that the Philippines dispatched a civilian vessel to deliver essential supplies to a warship stationed at the Second Thomas Shoal, which Beijing claims was unlawfully “beached” in the contested area of the South China Sea.

Chinese state media cited coast guard officials who stated that this operation was consistent with a temporary agreement established between the two nations. This reference points to a provisional arrangement made in July following a series of confrontations at the shoal.

In response, Philippine officials indicated that this agreement, reached after multiple skirmishes in recent months, might be subject to reevaluation due to a recent escalation of tensions elsewhere in the region.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) confirmed that the resupply mission for the naval vessel BRP Sierra Madre was backed by the country’s coast guard. They announced that essential provisions had been delivered, facilitating troop rotation, and reiterated their commitment to maintaining their responsibilities in the West Philippine Sea, ensuring full support and care for the personnel stationed there.

China asserts vast claims over the South China Sea, despite competing territorial claims from Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Vietnam, which has caused significant frustration among its neighbors.