China on Thursday criticized some Philippine officials for repeatedly spreading false narratives involving China over the South China Sea, saying China will safeguard its legitimate rights and maintain regional peace.

Jiang Bin, a spokesman for the Ministry of National Defense, made the remarks at a regular news conference in Beijing in response to reports that Romeo Brawner Jr, chief of staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, claimed the South China Sea is facing "illegal, aggressive, coercive and disinformation" activities.

The Philippine official also reportedly claimed that the Philippines faces broader security threats and called on the public to maintain a wartime mindset.

Jiang said some people in the Philippines have repeatedly hyped false narratives related to China, but their credibility has already been undermined.

He said the Philippine side has frequently provoked trouble at sea, infringed upon China's territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests, and colluded with extra-regional forces to stir up trouble in the South China Sea.

Such moves seriously violate the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea and harm the common interests of regional countries, Jiang said.

"Stirring up trouble wins no support, and creating problems out of nothing will find no market," the spokesman said.

Jiang said those who fabricate lies, intimidate the public and incite confrontation are the real threat to the Philippines' national interests and the well-being of its people.

"China fears no rough seas, but hopes the waters will remain calm," he said.

China will continue to take effective measures to safeguard its legitimate rights and interests and maintain regional peace and stability, Jiang added.