The China Coast Guard on Saturday criticized the Philippines for airdropping supplies to a stranded military ship in the South China Sea and accused them of "maliciously agitating" the situation.

According to a statement from the China Coast Guard, a Philippine small plane on Jan 21 airdropped supplies to the "illegally stranded" military ship at Ren'ai Reef.

The China Coast Guard will strengthen law enforcement around Ren'ai Reef and its adjacent waters to resolutely defend national sovereignty and maritime rights and interests.

Gan Yu, Spokesperson for China Coast Guard

The Coast Guard's spokesperson Gan Yu, said that the China Coast Guard closely monitored the situation, handled it according to law and regulations, and "made temporary special arrangements" for the necessary daily supplies.

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He accused the relevant Philippine parties of disregarding facts, maliciously hyping the situation, and deliberately misleading international perception, which is unhelpful in easing tensions in the South China Sea.

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"We warn the Philippine side to stop provocative hyping. The China Coast Guard will strengthen law enforcement around Ren'ai Reef and its adjacent waters to resolutely defend national sovereignty and maritime rights and interests," he said.