The Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) has called on the Philippines to immediately halt provocative actions near Huangyan Dao, a region China asserts as part of its sovereign territory. Liu Dejun, a CCG spokesperson, issued the warning on Wednesday, March 23, 2026, following what Beijing described as deliberate intrusions by Philippine vessels into waters under Chinese jurisdiction.
Liu stated that recent CCG training exercises in the area were conducted lawfully, with prior navigation safety notices issued. He accused Philippine ships of assembling under the pretext of fishing to 'stir up trouble' and 'sensationalize the situation,' calling the actions a calculated attempt to attract international attention.
'The CCG will continue to resolutely safeguard China's territorial sovereignty and maritime rights through lawful rights-protection activities,' Liu emphasized. The remarks follow heightened regional tensions, with China maintaining a consistent patrol presence near Huangyan Dao since November 2025, according to official reports.
