'China strongly supports the sovereignty, maritime rights and interests of Huangyan Island [Scarborough Shoal].

We advise the Philippines to avoid provocations,' Wang told a briefing.

Scarborough Shoal is located about 123 miles west of Subic Bay and is claimed by the Philippines, China and Taiwan.

On Monday, Philippine newspaper reported that the Philippines had removed the floating barriers in the South China Sea, saying they were illegally placed by the China Coast Guard (CCG) near the disputed area of Scarborough Shoal.