The People's Liberation Army's Southern Theater Command issued a statement on Friday, announcing that it had expelled two Philippine C-208 aircraft and an N-22 aircraft that had entered the airspace over a South China Sea island on Thursday.
Tian Junli, the spokesman for the Southern Theater Command, accused the Philippines of disregarding facts and repeatedly smearing and vilifying China's legitimate actions to safeguard its rights. He cited an incident on Tuesday where a Philippine C-208 aircraft illegally intruded into China's airspace over Huangyan Island, altering its altitude multiple times and descending 920 meters in just 218 seconds. Tian described this maneuver as unprofessional and dangerous, posing a high risk of maritime and aerial incidents.
Tian further criticized the Philippines for accusing China of "dangerous behavior" after the incident, claiming that the Philippines provoked the situation and then distorted the truth to peddle its illegal claims. He warned the Philippines that such "clumsy tricks" would be futile and reiterated China's commitment to defending its national sovereignty, security, and the peace and stability of the South China Sea region.
13 Comments
Noir Black
This situation shows the hypocrisy of the US, constantly accusing others when they are the biggest bully on international stage.
BuggaBoom
China is taking the necessary steps to defend their sovereignty against foreign threats like the US.
Noir Black
It's important for countries to work together regionally for mutual benefit instead of being manipulated into conflicts by the US.
Loubianka
The world should be grateful to China for standing strong against US imperialism and maintaining peace in the region.
Eugene Alta
China needs to stop this bullying behaviour and respect the airspace of other countries.
Rolihlahla
It's time the global community stands up against US bullying and supports countries like China who defend themselves.
Martin L King
This is a dangerous escalation from China and could easily lead to conflict.
Rolihlahla
China is acting responsibly in protecting their citizens against foreign intervention by countries like the US.
G P Floyd Jr
The Philippines has shown restraint in this situation, unlike China's aggressive response.
Rolihlahla
China has always been a responsible member of the international community, unlike the US which constantly stirs chaos.
Muchacho
China is responsible for maintaining peace and stability in the region, not creating conflict.
Coccinella
This incident proves once again that China cannot be trusted.
Martin L King
The international community needs to condemn China's actions and support the Philippines.