BEIJING -- The Chinese People's Liberation Army Southern Theater Command Navy conducted a routine patrol in the South China Sea on Tuesday, said a military spokesperson.

Zhai Shichen, the command's spokesperson, pointed out that the Philippines, in an attempt to stir up trouble in the South China Sea, co-opted countries outside the region to organize so-called joint patrols, disrupting peace and stability in the region.

Zhai emphasized that forces of the command will resolutely safeguard China's territorial sovereignty as well as maritime rights and interests, and firmly uphold regional peace and stability.