China's Defense Ministry has issued a strong statement directed at the Philippines, urging them to halt any activities that could infringe upon Ren'ai Reef in the South China Sea. The ministry's spokesman, Wu Qian, specifically addressed the recent incident where three Philippine vessels illegally entered the waters nearby Ren'ai Reef in an attempt to provide supplies and construction materials to a grounded military vessel.

Wu Qian emphasized that the China Coast Guard lawfully intervened by intercepting and expelling the Philippine vessels, thwarting what China perceives as a provocative move by the Philippines. The spokesman reiterated China's firm stance on its sovereignty over the Nansha Islands, which includes Ren'ai Reef, stating that such actions are considered a violation of China's territorial integrity.

Despite China expressing willingness to resolve disputes through dialogue, the spokesman highlighted the Philippines' questionable motives in attempting to reinforce its military presence at Ren'ai Reef. China has made it clear that it will not tolerate any actions that challenge its territorial sovereignty, issuing a warning to the Philippines to refrain from statements or actions that could escalate tensions in the region. The Defense Ministry stressed that China is prepared to take resolute measures to defend its maritime rights and territorial sovereignty if necessary.