China's Foreign Ministry has said that bringing ties with the Philippines back onto a healthy and stable track will serve the interests of both countries. It comes after Philippines president-elect, Rodrigo Duterte, outlined the benefits of re-establishing friendly relations with China. 

"China continues to pursue friendship and partnership with its neighbours, and that includes the Philippines. We believe it serves the fundamental interests of both countries, and meets the shared aspirations of both peoples, to deal with disputes properly, and bring bilateral ties back on track towards development. Improved bilateral ties will also result in opportunities for the common development of the two countries. China is willing to work with the new government of the Philippines towards this goal," said Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Hua Chunying.