Second Thomas Shoal

The atoll in the South China Sea has been subject to what some observers have characterized as a Chinese blockade.

Government officials, including two former presidents, have denied Beijing's claim that Manila made an agreement to remove the ship from the disputed shoal.

Enrique Manalo's comments come at a time of growing tension over Second Thomas Shoal, a Philippine-occupied atoll in the Spratly Islands.

The announcement comes at a time of increased Chinese assertiveness in disputed waters.

This is the second time this year that Huang has been summoned following stand-offs in the vicinity of Second Thomas Shoal.

The Philippine Coast Guard claims that a Chinese vessel used a high-powered water cannon in order to prevent the resupply of the Philippine forces stationed on Second Thomas Shoal.

The statement from Washington followed another near-collision between Philippine and Chinese ships in the South China Sea.

As relations between Manila and Washington rapidly improve, Beijing is upping the intensity in disputed parts of the South China Sea.

The alleged incident took place close to Second Thomas Shoal in a disputed part of the South China Sea.

The head of the PCG announced that it would increase sea patrols and overflights to defend the country's maritime claims.

The Philippine Coast Guard claims that Chinese vessels have maneuvered dangerously close to Philippine ships on four occasions over the past year.

The South China Sea continues to be a perennial flashpoint, despite Duterte's best efforts to keep relations on an even keel.