Chinese ships appeared to shadow Filipino fishermen conducting a civilian supply mission in disputed territory in the South China Sea.

Footage shows two China Coast Guard vessels looming in the horizon as the fishermen rode a motorboat toward the Scarborough Shoal, 120 nautical miles west of the Philippine island of Luzon, on May 15.

The civilian mission, called 'Atin Ito' (This is Ours), was organised by local government party Akbayan to deliver supplies to Filipino fishermen in the vicinity of Scarborough Shoal.

The Philippine Coast Guard, escorting the contingent on the BRP Bagacay ship, confirmed that two CCG vessels allegedly shadowed and tried to block the Filipino convoy.

In a May 16 statement, Akbayan President and Atin Ito co-convenor Rafaela David said the convoy's advance team has reached Scarborough Shoal.

She said: 'Despite China's massive blockade, we managed to breach their illegal blockade, reaching Bajo de Masinloc to support our fishers with essential supplies. Mission accomplished.

'They swiftly delivered crucial provisions, including fuel and food, to Filipino fishers working in the area. Their efforts resulted in the distribution of 1,000 liters of diesel and 200 food packs. This is despite a Chinese Navy ship with body number 175 constantly shadowing them.'

Expansionist China currently lays claim over almost the entire South China Sea, one of the world's busiest sea lanes. But a United Nations-backed tribunal in 2016 deemed its claims groundless.

The Communist rogue state - accused of genocide for its crimes against the Uyghur population - has been steadily increasing its influence in recent years through investment in developing countries.