China and Philippines reach tentative deal to defuse tensions at South China Sea flashpoint

Temporary deal agreed to prevent escalation of standoffs around the Sierra Madre, a Philippine ship grounded on the disputed Second Thomas Shoal

The Philippines says it has reached an understanding" with China on resupply missions to a beached Filipino naval ship that has been a key flashpoint between the two countries in the South China Sea

The Chinese foreign ministry confirmed the temporary arrangement" with the two sides agreeing to jointly manage maritime differences and de-escalate the situation in the South China Sea.