PLA Southern Theater Command drives away Philippine aircraft illegally intruding into China's Huangyan Dao

BEIJING, Mar. 18 -- Senior Captain Zhai Shichen, spokesperson for the PLA Southern Theater Command stated, on March 18, 2 Philippine C-208 aircraft illegally intruded into the territorial airspace over China's Huangyan Dao without the approval of the Chinese government. The naval and air forces dispatched by the PLA Southern Theater Command warned, and expelled the Philippine aircraft in accordance with the law and regulations. The actions of the Philippine side, seriously infringing upon China's sovereignty, are highly likely to lead to misunderstandings and misjudgments. We sternly urge the Philippine side to immediately stop infringement and provocations. The theater command forces remain on high alert at all times, to firmly safeguard national sovereignty, security, and regional peace and stability.