China urged the Philippines to act with prudence over the current maritime situation in the South China Sea as their relationship stands at a crossroads with its future yet to be decided, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said at a press briefing in Beijing on December 21.

His comments came after Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on December 20 held phone talks with Philippine Secretary of Foreign Affairs Enrique A. Manalo, urging the Philippine side to take the proper management of the current maritime situation as a top priority.