China Conducts Military Exercises Near Huangyan Dao to Warn Philippines

The Ministry of National Defence of the People's Republic of China conducted military exercises and law enforcement training around Huangyan Dao and its surrounding waters on August 7, 2026. The operations served as a warning to the Philippines following the Philippine government's decision to deposit an official nautical chart of Huangyan Dao and its maritime zones with the United Nations.

Spokesperson Chen Xi stated that the exercises are necessary and legitimate measures to safeguard Chinese sovereignty over the area, which China claims as its inherent territory. Chen characterized the Philippine action as a violation of international law and China's territorial sovereignty, asserting that China is the only country entitled to declare territorial sea baselines for the region.

Chen urged the Philippines to cease its illegitimate acts and provocations. He warned that the Chinese military will implement firm and effective countermeasures against any further attempts to stir trouble in the South China Sea.