Philippine activities near Huangyan Island cannot change the island's status under China's sovereignty

A Chinese defense spokesman stated on Thursday that the Philippines' actions around Huangyan Island cannot alter the fact that the island is Chinese territory.

Jiang Bin, spokesman for the Ministry of National Defense, said at a regular press conference that defense and security cooperation among relevant countries should not target third parties or undermine regional peace and stability.

He made these remarks in response to reports that Philippine official vessels had repeatedly entered waters under China's jurisdiction near Huangyan Island, prompting the China Coast Guard to take measures to drive them away in accordance with the law. The Philippines, the United States, and Japan also conducted so-called "joint patrols" in the relevant waters, according to the reports.

"Huangyan Island is China's inherent territory," Jiang said, adding that the territorial scope of the Philippines is defined by a series of international treaties and that Huangyan Island falls outside its territory. "No matter what moves the Philippines makes or whom it seeks to rally for support, it cannot change this objective fact, and its illegal attempts will never succeed," he said.

Jiang stated that the Chinese military remains on high alert and will resolutely counter any infringement or provocative actions.

"China will take concrete actions to safeguard national territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests, and uphold peace and stability in the South China Sea," he said.