From February 23 to 26, the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Southern Theater Command Navy conducted a routine patrol in the South China Sea.

The Philippines had co-opted countries outside the region to organize so-called "joint patrols," disrupting peace and stability in the region, Senior Captain Zhai Shichen, spokesperson for the PLA Southern Theater Command said. 

The spokesperson emphasized that forces of the PLA Southern Theater Command will resolutely safeguard China's territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests, and firmly uphold regional peace and stability.