Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lu Kang has called the South China Sea arbitration filed by Philippines is a "political provocation" aimed at China.

"Now, the Philippines, on the one hand, claimed the arbitration they filed is not to solve the problem of territorial sovereignty, and announced they would halt their construction on Zhongye Island. But, in the meantime, they have kept working on the airport upgrade there and have attempted to expand the illegal seize of Chinese territory. And they also wish to legalize what they have done through the arbitration," Lu Kang said.

The Philippines has submitted evidence to a UN tribunal hearing its case against China's territorial claims in the South China Sea since 2014. Both sides have overlapping claims in the sea, which has led to severe tensions. China has refused to take part in the arbitration and warned that the case will damage bilateral ties. The verdict will be announced in the coming few weeks by the Court of Arbitration in the Hague.

"The overall situation in the South China Sea is stable, some conflicts are under control. I wish that all people do not disturb the order in this region," Lu Kang said.