China urges Philippines to stop false narrative on PLA navy aircraft

China urges Philippines to stop false narrative on PLA navy aircraft, emphasizing that the PLA helicopter was on a routine patrol.

A Chinese military spokesperson has urged the Philippines to cease rights-infringing actions and stop spreading false narratives regarding a People’s Liberation Army (PLA) navy aircraft. The warning came after claims from the Philippine side that a PLA navy aircraft engaged in dangerous maneuvers against a Philippine public service aircraft over China’s Huangyan Dao, allegedly endangering pilots and passengers.

Wu Qian, spokesman for the Ministry of National Defense, dismissed the allegations as groundless, asserting that the Philippine aircraft had entered China’s airspace with journalists onboard to provoke tensions. He emphasized that the incident was misrepresented, portraying the Philippine side as a victim despite its unauthorized actions.

Wu clarified that the PLA helicopter was on a routine patrol, and it was the Philippine provocation that posed risks to air and maritime safety. He condemned the unjustified accusations and stressed that China was acting within its rights.

The Chinese military has demanded that the Philippines immediately halt its provocative actions, refrain from spreading misinformation, and engage in constructive dialogue to maintain peace and stability in the South China Sea.