On September 24, 2026, the Philippines dispatched two vessels named BRP Malabrigo and BRP Cabra to carry out a fuel supply mission to Second Thomas Shoal. This mission is part of the regular rotation and supply for the BRP Sierra Madre, which has been grounded at this location since 1999 and serves as a symbol of the Philippines' presence in the Spratly Islands.
Details of the Incident and Chinese Intervention
During this mission, Chinese coast guard vessels continuously monitored the Philippine ships. Jay Tarriela, spokesperson for the Philippine coast guard, announced that the fuel supply operation was temporarily halted due to the dangerous maneuvers of a Chinese coast guard vessel that threatened to collide. Fortunately, no casualties were reported in this incident.
China described this incident as a "provocation" and claimed that the Philippines is attempting to supply fuel to an "illegal" vessel. China also pointed out that this event occurred specifically on a Chinese holiday and that the Filipinos have exaggerated it. China has urged the Philippines to refrain from provocation and creating problems, claiming that the Philippines is not adhering to its commitments.
History and Legal Consequences
The Philippines believes that this area is part of its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and does not need to seek permission to support the BRP Sierra Madre. Furthermore, according to the Philippines, a temporary agreement with China in 2024 does not require seeking Beijing's permission for fuel supply missions. In July, the Philippine coast guard claimed that Chinese coast guard vessels used water cannons on supply vessels and beat one of the crew members of the Philippine Navy with a wooden stick.
A few days ago, in a similar incident, Chinese and Philippine forces were carrying out a fuel supply mission for Philippine fishermen in another area when a Chinese vessel caused over $22,000 in damage to the equipment and railings of the Philippine vessel.
