Philippines urged to solve marine issue through talks, not tribunal

China on Friday rejected an attempt by the Philippines to seek an international arbitration tribunal verdict on the South China Sea issue, urging Manila to solve the problem through bilateral negotiation.

Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying made the remarks in a statement, saying Beijing "firmly and consistently opposes the illegal occupation of islands and reefs by the Philippines, and demands the Philippines withdraw all its nationals and facilities from them".