Philippines urged to stop political manipulation at sea

A Chinese defense spokesperson on Tuesday urged the Philippines to stop unscrupulous political manipulation and self-directed farces at sea.

Jiang Bin, a spokesperson for China's Ministry of National Defense, made the remarks in response to the Philippine Coast Guard's deployment of vessels and aircraft near China's Huangyan Island, in the name of "protecting sovereign rights and the livelihoods of fishermen."

Jiang reiterated that Huangyan Island is part of China's territory and has never been within the territory of the Philippines.

Certain Philippine departments tricked and instigated innocent fishermen into committing provocative acts, fully demonstrating their disregard for the fishermen's livelihoods, well-being, or even their safety, Jiang stressed.

He added that China will continue to exercise sovereignty and jurisdiction over Huangyan Island and its adjacent waters in accordance with the law, and resolutely defend its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests.