The Chinese People's Liberation Army Southern Theater Command (STC) deployed its naval and air forces to conduct a routine patrol in the South China Sea on Sunday, STC spokesperson Zhai Shichen said.

File photo of the South China Sea. /VCG

In an attempt to stir up trouble in the South China Sea, the Philippines co-opted countries outside the region to conduct so-called joint patrols, disrupting peace and stability in the region, Zhai said.

Forces of the STC will resolutely safeguard China's territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests, while firmly uphold regional peace and stability, the spokesperson added.