The Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Southern Theater Command conducted routine patrols in the South China Sea, Senior Colonel Tian Junli, spokesperson for Chinese PLA Southern Theater Command said on Tuesday.

Recently, the Philippines has repeatedly violated China's maritime rights and engaged in provocative actions, while colluding with external forces to organize so-called “joint patrols”, Tian said. 

Naval and air forces of the PLA Southern Theater Command have been closely monitoring on high alert and keeping the situation well in hand. The troops remain on high alert to resolutely defend the country's territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests, and to safeguard peace and stability in the South China Sea, he said. 

(Source: Global Times)