China's military and coast guard said they conducted patrols near disputed waters in the South China Sea on Sunday, a day after the Philippines warned it remains under threat despite easing U.S.-China tensions.
Philippine and U.S. forces held a five-day maritime exercise near Scarborough Shoal last week, the third such drill this year, to strengthen interoperability and maritime security.
Scarborough Shoal, one of Asia's most contested maritime features, is a frequent flashpoint between China and the Philippines over sovereignty and fishing rights.
The People's Liberation Army's Southern Theatre Command said the patrols serve as an effective countermeasure against rights violations and provocative acts. China's coast guard added it dealt with ships engaged in illegal activities.
Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro said Manila remains under severe threat from China: "We have no choice but to stand up against Chinese aggression."
