A Chinese defense spokesperson on Thursday denounced the Philippines for attempting to play victim to elicit sympathy from the international community.

The Philippine side repeatedly organized its coast guard vessels and fishing boats to violate China's territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests, and undermine peace and stability in the South China Sea, while playing victim to elicit sympathy from and cause confusion in the international community. "This will never work."

Zhang Xiaogang, spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense, made the remarks at a press conference in response to a media query regarding relevant statements by Philippine officials.

"The maritime disputes between China and the Philippines have nothing to do with the size of countries. Rather, it is the merits of fact that matter," he noted.

China has indisputable sovereignty over Nanhai Zhudao, known in English as the South China Sea islands, and their adjacent waters, Zhang said.

He urged the Philippine side to change course and return to the right track of resolving issues through negotiation and consultation. 

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