BEIJING, Aug. 4 (Xinhua) — The Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Southern Theater Command conducted routine patrols in the South China Sea from Sunday to Monday, a spokesperson said.

Tian Junli, the command’s spokesperson, said the Philippines had colluded with non-regional countries to organize so-called “joint patrols,” which had undermined peace and stability in the region.

Tian stressed that the troops of the Southern Theater Command remain on high alert to safeguard China’s territorial sovereignty and maritime rights.  ■