Philippines says it has removed a floating barrier installed by China to block Philippine fishing boats entering a contested area in the South China Sea.

In a statement, the Philippines Coast Guard said he had been ordered to do so by President Ferdinand Marcos Junior.

As a result of the 300m (1,000ft) barrier in Scarborough Shoal, Manila says China has violated its fishing rights.

A shoal in the South China Sea was seized by China in 2012, which claims 90% of the sea.

In defending the actions of its coastguard, Beijing stated they were “necessary”.

“The barrier posed a hazard to navigation, clearly violating international law. It also hindered Filipino fisherfolk’s fishing and livelihood activities,” the Philippines coast guard said.

According to the report, the shoal is part of the Philippine national territory.

The coast guard’s Commodore Jay Tarriela said a patrol discovered the barrier on Friday.

When the Philippine vessel arrived, three Chinese coast guard vessels and a service boat from the Chinese maritime militia installed the barrier.

Upon realizing that media personnel were on board the Philippine vessel, the Chinese boats issued 15 radio challenges and accused the Philippine ship and fishermen of violating international and Chinese laws.

In an effort to ensure regional stability, Japan has called for calm in the South China Sea.

Hirokazu Matsuno, Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary, said at a regular press conference that Japan strongly opposes any conduct which heightens tensions in the South China Sea.