China on Monday demanded the Philippines ensure the safety and lawful rights of six detained Chinese fishermen.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei made the remarks at a daily news briefing.

The six Chinese fishermen were detained by Philippines authorities for allegedly entering the country's territorial waters, according to media reports.

"China attaches great importance to the incident and has already lodged representations to the Philippine side," said Hong.

China has demanded that the incident be handled promptly, appropriately and in a fair manner, he said, adding the Chinese Embassy in Manila has dispatched officials to visit the six fishermen.