BEIJING – The Chinese People's Liberation Army Southern Theater Command deployed naval and air forces to conduct routine patrols from June 27 to 28 in the South China Sea, spokesperson Zhai Shichen said on Monday.

In an attempt to stir up trouble in the South China Sea, the Philippines co-opted countries outside the region to organize so-called joint patrols, disrupting peace and stability in the region, Zhai said.

Forces of the command will resolutely safeguard China's territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests, and firmly uphold regional peace and stability, the spokesperson added.