China Coast Guard urges Philippines to stop provocations

Several Philippine vessels illegally gathered in the waters around Houteng Jiao in China's Nansha Qundao in the name of fishing, and the China Coast Guard (CCG) has taken necessary control measures against them, a CCG spokesperson said on Monday.

The CCG also urged the Philippines to immediately cease its provocative actions.

Spokesperson Liu Dejun noted that the Philippine vessels ignored warnings and dissuasion from the CCG, gathering illegally in the waters around Houteng Jiao. These vessels were also accompanied by media reporters staging scenes for publicity.

Liu emphasized that China holds indisputable sovereignty over Nansha Qundao, including Houteng Jiao, and the surrounding waters. He called on the Philippines to cease its provocative actions, stop distorting facts and refrain from engaging in sensational propaganda.

Liu added that the CCG will continue to conduct rights protection and law enforcement activities in waters under China's jurisdiction to firmly safeguard the nation's territorial sovereignty and maritime rights.