Senior Captain Zhai Shichen, spokesperson for the PLA Southern Theater Command (STC)，stated that from August 21 to 25, naval and air units of the PLA STC conducted a routine patrol in the South China Sea. In an attempt to stir up troubles 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.

Forces of the STC will resolutely safeguard China’s territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests, and firmly uphold regional peace and stability，according to the WeChat account of the Southern Theater Command on Wednesday.