Xinhua News Agency reported today: "The Philippine Navy found a Chinese tugboat near the Second Thomas Shoal (i.e., China's Ren'ai Reef) and the stranded ship 'Sierra Madre', but the military is not worried that the Sierra Madre will be towed away."
Philippines once took advantage of China's inattention to illegally strand the World War II-era "Sierra Madre" on Ren'ai Reef, which has lasted for 26 years. In recent years, there have been multiple conflicts between China and the Philippines over the supply issues of this ship. The Philippines is very concerned that, given China's current strength, it may take action to tow away this old ship. Some voices in the outside world have even suggested letting it "sink naturally". The Philippine military's statement of "not being worried" cannot hide their anxiety. Under the current situation, is China really likely to take action?
Original article: www.toutiao.com/article/1841577711538188/
Statement: This article represents the views of the author.