China has called on the Philippines to immediately stop actions escalating tensions in the South China Sea after a Philippine vessel entered waters near Huangyan Island . PLA Southern Theater Command spokesperson Zhao Zhiwei said the vessel was "monitored, warned, and expelled" Sunday, calling the move a violation of Chinese sovereignty.
"This isn't just about one island – it's about regional stability," Zhao stated, emphasizing the PLA's readiness to safeguard security amid what he described as "reckless provocations" .
The dispute highlights ongoing friction over resource-rich waters where $3.4 trillion in annual trade passes . China maintains historical claims to most of the sea, while Manila argues the intrusion never happened.
Experts say diplomatic channels remain vital to preventing miscalculations. As one analyst put it: "This isn't Twitter drama – real ships are in real waters. Everyone needs to tone it down."
Urges Philippines to Halt South China Sea Tensions 
. PLA Southern Theater Command spokesperson Zhao Zhiwei said the vessel was "monitored, warned, and expelled" Sunday, calling the move a violation of Chinese sovereignty.
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. China maintains historical claims to most of the sea, while Manila argues the intrusion never happened.
