At a July 30 press briefing, China's defense ministry spokesman Jiang Bin said
Philippine government vessels repeatedly intruded into waters around Scarborough
Shoal and were lawfully expelled by the China Coast Guard. He criticized
Philippines–U.S.–Japan "joint patrols" in the area, saying defense cooperation
should not target third parties or harm regional stability. Jiang reiterated
Scarborough Shoal is China’s inherent territory and outside Philippine territory
as defined by treaties, and said Philippine manoeuvres will not change that
fact. He added the Chinese military remains on high alert and will resolutely
counter any infringements to defend territorial sovereignty and maritime rights
and maintain South China Sea stability.
