Spokesperson for the Southern Theater Command Zhai Shichen Comments on Dangerous Approach of Philippine Navy Vessels to China
Southern Theater Command spokesperson, Navy Senior Colonel Zhai Shichen, stated that on March 25, the Chinese People's Liberation Army Navy's ship 532 conducted routine patrol activities in the waters near Zhubi Reef in the Nansha Islands. After discovering a Philippine vessel, the Chinese ship issued warnings. The Philippine ship 507, disregarding repeated warnings from the Chinese side, continued to adjust its course to the right, intentionally turning towards the Chinese ship 532, dangerously approaching and interfering with our normal patrol activities. The Chinese ship 532 took professional and standardized actions to effectively avoid any unexpected incidents. The operations of the Philippine vessel were unsafe and unprofessional, which could easily lead to maritime accidents. Furthermore, the Philippine side retaliated by falsely claiming that the Chinese vessel was "dangerously approaching." We warn the Philippine side to strictly control their maritime and aerial military activities, immediately cease provocative and risky behaviors, and stop the smear campaign. The theater forces remain on high alert, resolutely defending national territorial sovereignty and the peace and stability of the South China Sea region.
On March 25, the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) vessel 532 conducted a routine patrol near Zhubi Reef in the Spratly Islands. Upon detecting the Philippine vessel 507, it issued warnings, which were ignored as the Philippine vessel approached dangerously. The PLAN vessel successfully avoided any incidents through professional maneuvers, while the Philippines accused China of dangerous proximity.
- Chinese naval vessel 532 conducted routine patrol near Zhubi Reef.
- Philippine vessel 507 ignored warnings and approached dangerously.
- Chinese vessel took professional measures to avoid incidents.
- Philippines accused China of dangerous proximity.
- China warned the Philippines to cease provocative actions.