China permits Philippines to supply illegally grounded warship at Ren'ai Jiao

The China Coast Guard (CCG) said on Friday that, with China's permission, the Philippines on Thursday sent a civilian ship to transport supplies to its illegally grounded warship at Ren'ai Jiao in the South China Sea.

The CCG conducted verification and maintained oversight throughout the process, said Liu Dejun, a CCG spokesperson, in a statement.

Liu urged the Philippine side to honor its commitments and work with China to keep the maritime situation under control.

"The CCG will continue rights protection and law enforcement activities in China's Nansha Qundao, including Ren'ai Jiao, and its adjacent waters," the spokesperson said.

In May 1999, the Philippines "grounded" tank landing ship BRP Sierra Madre (LT-57) at Ren'ai Jiao. The Chinese side immediately lodged serious demarches, asking the Philippines to tow away the vessel at once. The Philippines repeatedly promised to do so as soon as possible. However, 25 years have passed, and the vessel remains.

(With input from Xinhua)