No incidents reported in latest Ayungin Shoal resupply mission – AFP

Metro Manila, Philippines — The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) conducted a successful rotation and reprovisioning mission to Ayungin Shoal in the West Philippine Sea on Thursday, November 14, without any untoward incidents.

"The AFP continues to uphold its mandate of safeguarding Philippine sovereignty and ensuring the welfare of its stationed personnel in the West Philippine Sea," the AFP said, confirming the smooth completion of the mission.

Filipino troops stationed on the BRP Sierra Madre – which has been grounded at Ayungin Shoal (also known as Second Thomas Shoal) since 1999 - received the supplies. The shoal has been a longstanding point of tension in the South China Sea, where both the Philippines and China assert claims.

In July, the Philippines and China reached a provisional agreement to facilitate these resupply missions and reduce risks of miscalculations at sea. "Both sides concurred that the agreement will not prejudice each other’s positions in the South China Sea," the Department of Foreign Affairs previously stated.

Both nations have also emphasized the importance of de-escalation and managing differences through continued dialogue and consultation.