Dispute timeline

Since 1970s:

Philippines seizes eight islands and reefs belonging to China's Nansha Islands.

May 1999:

Philippine ship becomes grounded illegally on China's Ren'ai Reef, reporting a mechanical problem. Manila has refused to remove it.

April 2012:

Philippines sends military vessels to harass Chinese fishing boats and fishermen operating in waters off China's Huangyan Island. The fishermen are badly treated in what becomes known as the Huangyan Island Incident.

January 2013:

Philippines unilaterally initiates an arbitration case regarding its disputes with China in the South China Sea.

March 2014:

Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs issues a public statement declaring its occupation of Ren'ai Reef due to the presence of its grounded ship since 1999.