Philippines To Upgrade Island Features In South China Sea, Says Army Chief

in photo: an aerial view of Second Thomas Shoal. The Philippine Navy deliberately grounded the World War II-era BRP Sierra Madre on Second Thomas Shoal in 1999. (Credit: AFP)

KEY POINTS

• The purpose is to alleviate the living conditions of troops
• Brawner said he witnessed the plight of marines stationed on the grounded BRP Sierra Madre during a visit last month
• The Philippines started refurbishing the mangled vessel in October

Manila is planning to "improve" facilities on Philippine-occupied island features in the disputed South China Sea. The plan is to make Philippine-occupied areas more livable for military personnel deployed within the country's exclusive economic zone (EEZ).