Conflicting narratives suggest differing interpretations of the 'understanding' reached by Beijing and Manila on a disputed reef in the South China Sea.
The Philippines on Saturday delivered fresh troops and supplies to Second Thomas Shoal as Chinese forces observed from nearby, in the first such mission since the neighboring countries announced an 'understanding' to de-escalate tensions at the contested reef.A government-commissioned civilian vessel, the MV Lapu-Lapu, made the delivery while escorted by the BRP Cape Engano, a 144-foot Philippine coast guard cutter.
Jonathan Malaya, assistant director of the Philippines' National Security Council, disputed Beijing's account, saying the Chinese coast guard had not boarded any Philippine vessels. Manila 'did not and will never seek' China's permission to carry out the supply missions, he went on.
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