Philippine forces successfully transported food, fuel, and new personnel to a territorial outpost in the heavily contested South China Sea.
The mission, carried out at the Second Thomas Shoal, was reportedly interrupted by communication jamming from Chinese governmental ships.
This tactic forms part of Beijing’s routine security measures in the disputed region, according to two high-ranking Philippine officials who spoke on the condition of anonymity due to the matter’s sensitivity.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines navigated through the presence of Chinese Coast Guard and other vessels, which have maintained surveillance around the shoal for several years.
Despite these obstacles, Friday’s supply and personnel delivery to the outpost—anchored by the grounded warship BRP Sierra Madre—concluded successfully and without incident.
Chinese authorities have previously laid claim to the shoal and most of the South China Sea, urging the removal of the Sierra Madre.
During the recent operation, one official noted that the Chinese Coast Guard disrupted communications near the shoal, possibly to deter drone reconnaissance by the United States and other foreign entities committed to upholding international law in the significant maritime passage.
Since last year, the Philippine military has conducted 12 such resupply operations without incident.
The signing of a temporary nonaggression agreement between China and the Philippines in July 2024 has helped prevent confrontations at the strategically vital location, claimed by both nations.
Nevertheless, tensions remain. In August, China reinforced its presence by dispatching additional coast guard units and suspected militia ships armed with more powerful weaponry, accompanied by a helicopter and an unmanned surveillance drone.
During this period, a Chinese Coast Guard vessel brandished its water cannon, and another Chinese ship approached as close as 50 meters to the Sierra Madre. Philippine forces thwarted the advancement, blocking the Chinese vessel’s closer approach to the outpost.
The Sierra Madre was intentionally grounded in 1999 by the Philippine military at the Second Thomas Shoal to establish a territorial claim, now surrounded by Chinese vessels.
This protracted standoff has led to numerous tense encounters between the two nations’ maritime forces. However, the recent nonaggression pact represents a significant diplomatic milestone between the Asian neighbors.
Besides China and the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan also claim sections of this crucial sea route. While the U.S. has no territorial claims in the area, it remains a staunch ally of the Philippines.
The U.S. has reiterated its defense obligation towards the Philippines, pledging support in the event of an armed attack against Filipino forces, aircraft, or ships in the South China Sea.