China urges the Philippines to stop provocations in South China Sea

A spokesperson for the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Southern Theater Command on Sunday urged the Philippines to cease infringements and provocations in the South China Sea.

Senior Captain Zhao Zhiwei, spokesperson for the navy of the Southern Theater Command, made the remarks in comments to a Philippine vessel's illegal intrusion to the territorial waters of China's Huangyan Dao on Sunday.

The PLA Southern Theater Command monitored, issued warnings, and expelled the vessel in accordance with law, said Zhao.

The Philippines' actions severely violate China's sovereignty and contravene both Chinese law and relevant international law, he said.

"We sternly warn the Philippines to immediately cease its infringements and provocations, or it will bear all consequences arising from its actions," he said.

The Theater Command remains on high alert at all times, resolutely safeguarding China's national sovereignty and security, and firmly upholding peace and stability in the South China Sea, he added.

(Cover: File photo of Huangyan Dao. /VCG)