Ayungin Shoal

Ayungin Shoal, a focal point of tension in the West Philippine Sea, remains occupied by the Philippines with the grounded BRP Sierra Madre since 1999. China has increased its maritime presence near the shoal and warned the Philippines about potential consequences if it continues provocative actions. Despite these challenges, the Philippines maintains its commitment to defending its territorial claims through diplomacy and regular resupply missions for the troops stationed on BRP Sierra Madre.