The Philippines and China have reached an agreement on a temporary arrangement for resupplying Filipino troops stationed on Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea. This agreement comes after several confrontations between Chinese and Philippine ships in recent months.
The agreement aims to de-escalate tensions and manage disagreements through dialogue and consultation. While the details of the arrangement have not been disclosed, both sides recognize the need to maintain peace in the region.
The agreement was reached following talks between the two countries this month, where they agreed to increase communication channels to resolve maritime disputes.
The Philippines has maintained a presence on Second Thomas Shoal since 1999, when they deliberately grounded the BRP Sierra Madre warship to assert their claim to the area. The troops stationed there require regular resupplies for food, water, and personnel rotations.
The Philippines has stated that resupply missions will remain a Philippine operation, despite the US offering support. The Philippines and the US are treaty allies with a mutual defense pact.
