Full coverage: The South China Sea Issue

Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Perfecto Yasay said on Wednesday that the resolution of the South China Sea dispute is between China and his country only, and the focus should be on diplomatic means.

Yasay also noted reports that former President Fidel Ramos has accepted the role of special envoy to China. Yasay says he hopes the talks will start as soon as possible.

He said, "I have been informed about the designation of former President Fidel V. Ramos, who reportedly accepted the assignment to engage China in bilateral talks with respect to this issue. We would hope that this would be pursued as soon as possible."