National Security Council says convoy of 40 boats to bring festive spirit to troops in South China Sea risks stirring tensions

A planned Christmas convoy of 40 boats aiming to bring the festive spirit to Filipino troops on a disputed shoal has been described as “ill advised” by the country’s security officials, who warned of heightened tensions with Beijing in the South China Sea.

The Philippines National Security Council has advised against the convoy’s planned trip, warning it is a time of “heightened tensions”.