WNAM MONITORING: The China Coast Guard warned the Philippines against escalating tensions in the South China Sea after a Philippine ship on Saturday noon “deliberately” crashed into a Chinese ship that was enforcing maritime rights under a routine operation.
The Philippines should bear all responsibilities for the matter, said Liu Dejun, a spokesperson for the China Coast Guard.
According to Liu, the Philippine Navy ship No. 9701 illegally entered Xianbin Jiao at 8:02 a.m. on Saturday and has since made provocative moves. China’s navy subsequently issued warnings in accordance with law and regulations, Liu added.
“We once again warn the Philippines to face reality and give up illusions. Withdrawing the ship immediately on its own is the only correct way,” the spokesperson said.
China also warned of further “necessary measures” for all sorts of provocative actions that might jeopardize China’s maritime rights, underscoring its indisputable sovereignty over the Nansha Qundao, including the Xianbin Jiao, and its adjacent waters.
