Key facts
- The Philippine Coast Guard accused China of obstructing a resupply mission to Second Thomas Shoal.
- The PCG stated China's actions put Filipino personnel at risk.
- China's actions were inconsistent with international law and a 2016 arbitral ruling.
- The Philippines called on China to stop interfering with its lawful resupply missions.
- The PCG will continue its lawful operations in the South China Sea.
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) accused China on Friday of obstructing a resupply mission for troops on board a grounded World War Two-era warship in the South China Sea, stating the action "put Filipino personnel at risk." The PCG said China Coast Guard and People's Liberation Army Navy vessels on Thursday "obstructed a legitimate humanitarian and sustainment operation" to Second Thomas Shoal. The PCG stated China's actions were inconsistent with international law and a 2016 arbitral ruling that invalidated Beijing's sweeping claims in the South China Sea. The Philippines called on China to stop interfering with its lawful resupply missions and stated it would continue its operations in the South China Sea and exercise Manila's sovereign rights and jurisdiction. The Chinese embassy in Manila did not immediately respond to a request for comment. In 2024, Manila and Beijing reached a provisional arrangement on resupply missions to Second Thomas Shoal, which the Philippine foreign ministry has said helped prevent confrontations. In July, Manila accused the China Coast Guard of firing water cannon at government vessels near Scarborough Shoal and striking a Philippine navy staff with a wooden baton during a separate encounter near Second Thomas Shoal.