Manila, July 16, 2023 — The Philippines and China have reached an “arrangement” for resupplying Filipino troops stationed on the disputed Second Thomas Shoal, Manila announced on Sunday. This comes after a series of escalating confrontations in the South China Sea, where China asserts claims over nearly the entire region.
The announcement follows high-level talks between the two countries aimed at de-escalating tensions and managing maritime disagreements through dialogue and consultation.
A significant incident occurred on June 17, when a Filipino sailor lost a thumb during a confrontation with the Chinese coast guard. The Chinese forces, armed with knives, sticks, and an axe, thwarted the Philippine Navy’s attempt to resupply its troops on the BRP Sierra Madre, a warship deliberately grounded on Second Thomas Shoal in 1999 to assert Manila’s territorial claims.
The Philippine foreign ministry, in a statement, confirmed the understanding with China but did not elaborate on the specifics of the resupply arrangement. The agreement is seen as a step toward reducing hostilities and managing differences in the contested waters.
US Involvement and Support
The United States has expressed strong support for the Philippines. White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan affirmed that the US would “do what is necessary” to ensure the Philippines can continue its resupply missions. This assurance was reiterated during the Aspen Security Forum conference in Colorado.
The National Security Council of the Philippines, while acknowledging the US offer, maintained that resupply missions would remain a purely Philippine operation involving its own ships, personnel, and leadership. However, Jonathan Malaya, the assistant director-general of the council, noted that this policy could change based on future guidance from top management.
The Philippines and the United States have a mutual defense pact obligating both nations to come to each other’s aid in the event of an armed attack against their vessels, aircraft, military, and coast guard in the Pacific theatre, which includes the South China Sea.
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