China, Philippines agree to manage differences, stabilize situation

China and the Philippines agreed Tuesday to "responsibly" manage their differences, stabilize the situation and seek to expand their shared interests, Chinese media reported.

The two reached an agreement during a call between Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Theresa Lazaro, Beijing-based Xinhua News reported.

Wang said China's resolve to safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity and achieve "national reunification" remains "unwavering."

He urged Manila to "faithfully" implement its one-China policy and exercise "prudence in its words and actions on maritime issues."

Wang opined that "a few" Philippine politicians, out of political prejudice and self-interest, have repeatedly attacked and smeared China, and that the actions are "irrational and intolerable."

Lazaro said earlier on US social media company X that the two ministers held "a frank and constructive discussion on the direction of Philippines-China relations."

"Both sides emphasized the need for continued diplomatic dialogue and the proper management of differences anchored on mutual respect," she said.

The call came after Manila summoned Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan for remarks it said conveyed a threat to use force. Jing rejected that interpretation and lodged his own protest.

Jing made the remarks when reporters asked him about Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr’s description of China as a “troublemaker” in the region.

"If we want to use force, we may easily win. But no, we will not choose force, and we love peace," said Jing.

Beijing imposed sanctions on Teodoro in July, accusing him of repeatedly making irresponsible remarks that undermined China’s interests and sabotaged ties.

The dispute comes after repeated confrontations between Chinese and Philippine vessels in contested waters of the South China Sea.