China will take resolute and effective measures to counter any attempts to destabilize the South China Sea, while remaining committed to safeguarding regional peace and stability. Senior Colonel Chen Shi, spokesperson for China`s Ministry of National Defense, made the remarks during a regular press briefing on military affairs on Friday afternoon (October 16).

Reporters at the briefing noted that, according to media reports, the Philippines has recently carried out repeated provocations in the waters surrounding Huangyan Dao and Ren`ai Jiao. Manila also stated that it would not abide by China`s directives within its own "territory." Furthermore, the Philippine military claimed that more than 100 Chinese navy and coast guard vessels were deployed across relevant maritime areas in September, including Zhongye Dao and Xianbin Jiao, alleging that China`s objective was to undermine Manila`s resolve to defend its rights.

Clarifying China`s stance on these developments, Chen Shi affirmed that China possesses indisputable sovereignty over Huangyan Dao and the Nansha Qundao—including Zhongye Dao, Xianbin Jiao, and Ren`ai Jiao—as well as their adjacent waters. China also exercises sovereign rights and jurisdiction over the relevant maritime zones.

He pointed out that these islands and reefs do not constitute part of Philippine territory; therefore, the Philippines has no legal basis to claim it is "safeguarding its rights." China has taken legitimate, reasonable, and professional measures in accordance with laws and regulations to safeguard its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights.

Chen Shi further noted that for some time, the Philippines has ignored the common interests of regional countries by colluding with external forces to stir up tensions in the South China Sea. Manila has repeatedly staged infringements and provocations while distorting facts to propagate false narratives. He emphasized that the Philippines bears full responsibility for disrupting peace and stoking instability across the South China Sea.

Source: Xuei, Faisal, Zinia | China Media Group (CMG)