Chinese Defense Ministry spokesman Wu Qian warned Manila on March 24 to cease its "violations and provocations" near Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea.
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| A Philippine supply ship was intercepted by Chinese coast guard near Second Thomas Shoal in August 2023. (Source: AP) |
Responding to a press conference on March 24, Chinese Ministry of Defense spokesperson Wu Qian stated: “On March 23, a Philippine vessel encroached on the waters near Second Thomas Shoal, attempting to supply provisions to a Philippine warship that was illegally ‘grounded’ there.”
In accordance with laws and regulations, the Chinese Coast Guard has blockaded and moved the Philippine vessel (out of the relevant waters) to prevent the Philippines' attempts at encroachment and provocation.
According to Ngo Khiem, the recent incident was "entirely caused by provocative actions from the Philippines," while China's actions were "reasonable, legal, and professional."
A representative from the Chinese Ministry of Defense stated: "China is ready to resolve disputes with the Philippines in a satisfactory manner through dialogue and negotiation; however, Manila has violated its commitments, making a futile attempt to turn the illegally grounded warship at Second Thomas Shoal into a permanent base."
Earlier, on March 23, the Chinese coast guard said it had taken measures against Philippine vessels in disputed waters in the South China Sea on Saturday, while the Philippines criticized these actions, including the use of water cannons, as “irresponsible and provocative.”
The Philippine task force in the South China Sea said China's actions resulted in "significant damage" and injuries to personnel on a civilian boat hired to resupply the military.
This shoal is home to a small contingent of Philippine soldiers stationed on a warship that Manila anchored there in 1999 to bolster its sovereignty claims.
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