The China Coast Guard conducted law-enforcement patrols in the territorial waters of China's Huangyan Island and adjacent areas on Friday, the CCG said.

The CCG said in a statement released on Friday that, since the beginning of January, it has strengthened law-enforcement patrols in relevant waters, regulating vessels engaged in illegal activities and provocations in accordance with laws and regulations, and resolutely safeguarding national territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests.

The statement added that the CCG has also carried out search and emergency rescue operations in the waters under China's jurisdiction, successfully rescuing Filipino crew members and helping to uphold maritime safety and order.