BEIJING, April 28 -- The navy troops assigned to Chinese PLA Southern Theater Command (STC) conducted routine patrols in the South China Sea on April 28, said Senior Captain Zhai ShiChen, spokesperson for the Chinese PLA STC.

The spokesperson noted that the Philippines has colluded with countries outside the region to conduct so-called “joint patrols,” stirring up troubles in the South China Sea and undermining regional peace and stability.

“Forces of the Chinese PLA Southern Theater Command will resolutely safeguard China’s territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests, and firmly uphold regional peace and stability,” stressed the spokesperson.