China Warns Philippines after Navy Corvette Enters Disputed Waters near Huangyan Dao

Tensions flared in the South China Sea after a Philippine Navy vessel allegedly entered waters near Huangyan Dao on Saturday, prompting China’s military to issue a formal protest and warning.

According to a statement released on Sunday by Senior Captain Zhao Zhiwei, spokesperson for the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Southern Theater Command, the Philippine corvette BRP Apolinario Mabini (PS-36) "illegally intruded" into what China considers its territorial waters without official permission from Beijing.

In response, PLA naval forces tracked, monitored, and ordered the vessel to leave the area. “The actions of the Philippine side have seriously infringed upon China's sovereignty and violated relevant provisions of Chinese laws and international law,” Zhao stated.

The Chinese military warned that it holds the Philippines responsible for any future escalation. “We solemnly warn the Philippine side to immediately cease infringement and provocation. Otherwise, all consequences arising therefrom will be borne by the Philippine side,” Zhao added.

China’s PLA said it will maintain heightened readiness to “resolutely defend China’s national sovereignty and security” and to “maintain peace and stability in the South China Sea region.”

Manila has yet to issue a public response to the incident.