China's coastguard said that the Philippines sent a civilian ship to deliver supplies to its warship, which was "illegally anchored" on Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea.

In a press release, the coast guard said that it "questioned" and monitored the Philippine vessel during its entire supply mission. It added that it would continue "rights protection" and "law enforcement activities" around the Spratly Islands.

The Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs stated that the country has rotated personnel of BRP Sierra Madre, and sent supplies to the vessel without incident.

China and the Philippines are engaged in a heated exchange of barbs over the past few months regarding manoeuvres on Second Thomas Shoal. This atoll is located within Manila's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), which extends to 200 nautical miles.

The coast guard stated that "China hopes that the Philippine side will honour their commitments, work with them to manage maritime issues and maintain joint stability."

China claims nearly the entire South China Sea despite claims from Brunei and Indonesia.

China rejects a 2016 decision of an arbitral tribunal that Beijing's claims based on historical maps are not backed by international law.

Beijing and Manila met again earlier this month to discuss their maritime disputes. Both sides agreed to find common ground and ways to work together. Beijing Newsroom, Karen Lema and David Evans in Manila contributed to this report.

(source: Reuters)