Defense spokesman: Philippine 'farce' won't shake China's resolve on Huangyan Island

The self-directed farces by the Philippines over Huangyan Island will not sway China's firm resolve in safeguarding its rights, a spokesman for the Ministry of National Defense said.

Senior Colonel Jiang Bin said on Wednesday that taking journalists on board during the Philippine Coast Guard's so-called patrol missions to film videos and play up a "victim's narrative" has become a not-so-surprising playbook for the Philippine side.

"The so-called transparency and exposure campaign is not about uncovering the truth to the world, but a self-directed farce. Let me make it clear to the Philippine side: edited footage and fabricated lies can never change China's sovereignty over our islands and reefs in the South China Sea, including Huangyan Island. They won't sway China's firm resolve in safeguarding our rights in accordance with the law. We will continue to take effective countermeasures in response to all rights-violation actions and provocations," he said.

Jiang made the remarks in response to a request for comment on the PCG's recent moves.

On March 7, a PCG reconnaissance aircraft carrying journalists was reportedly warned off by Chinese navy ships while "patrolling near Huangyan Island". The PCG also said it would conduct more patrols in the South China Sea and enhance public communication to increase transparency and counter what it described as China's bullying.

Jiang said China has indisputable sovereignty over its islands and reefs in the South China Sea, including Huangyan Island, and their adjacent waters.

"China's law enforcement and rights-protection operations in waters within our jurisdiction are fully justified. In the face of the PCG's provocative actions, our measures were legitimate, professional and restrained," the spokesman said.