Beijing and Manila collaborated on dismantling a gambling ring comprising 180 Chinese nationals, showcasing a level of cooperation despite recent tensions in the South China Sea.

Authorities in the Philippines conducted a raid on an "offshore gambling company" in October, leading to the apprehension of Chinese nationals. They were subsequently repatriated on Thursday, as stated by Beijing's embassy in a released statement.

The embassy expressed full support for joint law enforcement efforts aimed at cracking down on criminal activities associated with such gambling operations.

Even as tensions escalated over maritime territory in the South China Sea, marked by multiple clashes between ships from the two nations over the weekend, the collaboration on the gambling bust indicates a willingness for cooperation.

The Philippines took diplomatic action by summoning Beijing's ambassador in Manila after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. condemned China's "dangerous actions." The Chinese military, in response, attributed the Philippines' provocative behavior to "external forces."

Last month, Chinese security officials revealed that Myanmar had repatriated over 31,000 suspects involved in scams back to China since September.

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Additionally, Myanmar has stated that China is assisting in brokering talks with the rebel alliance.