China assured the Philippines that it is not a threat after President Marcos expressed concern about the risk of Beijing’s continued dispute in the West Philippine Sea.

At the same time, China also claimed that it is the Philippines that is making provocations in the waters, stirring up troubles at sea and spreading disinformation.

The Philippines has long rejected China's accusations, saying its activities in the waters, including resupply missions, is part of its rights in the West Philippine Sea under international law.

Lin Jian, China's Foreign Ministry spokesman, said Wednesday, March 21, that China "pose[s] no threat to any country" as he claimed that China has long had territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in the South China Sea.

His pronouncement came after Marcos, in an interview with Bloomberg, warned of China's threat, referring to its claims over the whole South China Sea. But the President said the Philippines' efforts to assert its sovereignty over the West Philippine Sea, a part of the South China Sea, do not mean "poking the bear."

"What has recently escalated the situation concerning the South China Sea issue between China and the Philippines is that the latter has frequently made infringements and provocations, stirred up troubles at sea, and spread disinformation to mislead the perception of the international community," Lin claimed.

He said China's actions are only in line with safeguarding its interests but it also has  striven to properly handle maritime disputes through dialogue and consultation.