The Chinese military has called on the Philippines to exercise restraint in maritime operations following a tense encounter near Zhubi Jiao in the Nansha Qundao (Spratly Islands) this week. Senior Colonel Zhai Shichen, spokesperson for the People's Liberation Army Southern Theater Command, stated that a Philippine Navy vessel dangerously approached the Chinese naval ship PLANS 532 during routine patrols on March 25.
Despite multiple radio warnings, the Philippine ship allegedly altered course and closed in on the Chinese vessel, forcing evasive maneuvers to prevent collision. Zhai described the incident as 'unsafe and unprofessional,' countering claims of Chinese aggression.
'The Southern Theater Command remains fully committed to safeguarding national sovereignty and maritime rights,' Zhai emphasized, urging Manila to 'immediately cease provocative actions and misleading narratives.'
This development comes amid heightened regional attention to navigation safety in the South China Sea, a critical waterway where multiple nations maintain overlapping territorial claims. Analysts note the incident underscores the importance of established communication protocols between regional militaries.
