Only Philippine flagged law enforcement ships can challenge vessels in the country's maritime zone, a Philippine Navy official said after China warned Manila to cease alleged "infringement and provocation" in Scarborough Shoal.

In a statement, Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad, Philippine Navy spokesman for the West Philippine Sea, said China's warning and allegation "are all part of shaping or malign information operations" more likely intended for their internal audience.

"Only the Philippine Navy and other Philippine flagged law enforcement ships have the authority and legal bases to challenge any ship w/ in maritime zones," he said.

The official English-language news website of Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) said Senior Captain Zhao Zhiwei, spokesperson for the Chinese PLA Southern Theater Command claimed that Philippine Navy corvette BRP Apolinario Mabini "illegally intruded into the territorial waters of China's Huangyan Dao without the approval of the Chinese government."

Zhao said that the actions of the Philippine side have seriously infringed upon China's sovereignty and violated relevant provisions of Chinese laws and international law,

"We solemnly warn the Philippine side to immediately cease infringement and provocation. Otherwise, all consequences arising therefrom will be borne by the Philippine side." he said.

"The troops of the Chinese PLA Southern Theater Command will remain on high alert to resolutely defend China's national sovereignty and security, and resolutely maintain peace and stability in the South China Sea region," the spokesperson added. Robina Asido/DMS