China strongly condemned the reported fatal shooting of a Taiwanese fisherman, a Foreign Ministry spokeswoman said Thursday.

China expressed deep concern over the issue and strongly condemned the brutal act, spokeswoman Hua Chunying said in response to an inquiry.

China asked the Philippines to investigate the case immediately and explain as soon as possible, Hua said.

Media reports said the fisherman was shot dead on Thursday morning when a Filipino military ship fired at a Taiwanese fishing boat.

"We are expressing our deep grief on the death of the Taiwan compatriot and condolences to the victim's family," Hua said.