PLA navy patrols South China Sea, issues criticism of Philipines

The navy of the People's Liberation Army's Southern Theater Command conducted a routine patrol in the South China Sea from Sunday to Monday, a military spokesman said on Monday.

In the statement, Tian Junli, spokesman for the theater command, said the Philippines is drawing in non-regional countries to stir up trouble in the South China Sea by organizing so-called joint patrols, which undermine regional peace and stability.

According to Reuters, the Philippine and Indian navies had organized a two-day "joint sail" for the first time in the South China Sea, which started on Sunday.

Tian stressed that China's forces in the area remain on high alert, resolutely safeguarding national territorial sovereignty and maritime rights.

"Any military activities that aim to disrupt the South China Sea and create tensions are under full control," he said.