BEIJING — The Chinese military confirmed on Saturday that it conducted a patrol in the South China Sea on March 28, the same day U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reiterated Washington’s support for the Philippines, which disputes some of Beijing’s territorial claims in the region. A spokesperson for the People’s Liberation Army’s (PLA) Southern Theatre Command accused the Philippines of frequently collaborating with foreign nations to conduct "joint patrols" and promoting "illegal claims," actions that China says contribute to regional instability.

Hegseth met with Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in Manila on Friday as part of his tour of Asia, which also includes Japan. Coinciding with his visit, the United States, Japan, and the Philippines conducted joint naval drills in the South China Sea. The Philippine embassy in Beijing has yet to respond to requests for comment regarding China’s statements.

China asserts sovereignty over nearly the entire South China Sea, a strategically vital waterway through which approximately $3 trillion in trade passes annually. However, Beijing’s territorial claims overlap with those of several Southeast Asian nations, including the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Brunei.

Tensions in the region have escalated due to ongoing maritime disputes and increased military activity. China has frequently deployed its naval and coast guard vessels to reinforce its claims, while the Philippines has strengthened its defense ties with the United States and other allies to counter Beijing’s growing influence. Experts suggest that continued military patrols and joint exercises by multiple nations could heighten geopolitical tensions in the region, further complicating efforts to achieve diplomatic resolutions.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from Reuters.