China urges Philippines to halt 'risky' acts near South China Sea island

China's Defense Ministry on Thursday urged the Philippines to stop "risky infringements and provocations" near Huangyan Island in the South China Sea, following recent maritime tensions.

Senior Colonel Jiang Bin, a ministry spokesperson, made the remarks at an online news briefing in response to media reports that the Philippines has repeatedly sent naval frigates in an attempt to enter waters surrounding the island, which is China's territory.

Jiang said Philippine military vessels had recently tried to intrude into the territorial sea of Huangyan Island, and accused them of approaching Chinese vessels in a dangerous manner.

"Huangyan Island is China's inherent territory," Jiang said. "The Chinese side took necessary measures to stop and drive away the vessels, which were legitimate, legal, professional and restrained."

He called the Philippine actions "highly irresponsible" and said they severely threatened China's sovereignty and security.

"We urge the Philippine side to stop any risky infringements and provocations, and refrain from challenging China's firm resolve in safeguarding territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests," Jiang said.

"Otherwise, it will only taste the bitter fruit of its own doing," he added.