By The Straits Times | Created at 2026-09-25 06:23:37 | Updated at 2026-09-25 07:24:49
1 hour ago
MANILA, Sept 25 - 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, saying the action "put Filipino personnel at risk."
• The PCG said the China Coast Guard and the People's Liberation Army Navy on Thursday "obstructed a legitimate humanitarian and sustainment operation" to Second Thomas Shoal.
• It said 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.
• The PCG said it would continue its lawful operations in the South China Sea and exercise Manila's sovereign rights and jurisdiction in the waterway.
• 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 between the two sides.
• 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. REUTERS
