China's foreign ministry on Friday urged the Philippines to immediately stop "infringement and provocation" in the South China Sea or face China's "resolute response." The remarks came a day after Beijing and Manila traded accusations following a confrontation between two of their vessels in contested waters of the South China Sea.

Tensions rise as Philippines criticises China's use of water cannons and deployment of a massive vessel in the South China Sea.- Watch Video on English Oneindia

The Philippines seriously violated China's sovereignty and the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, Mao said at a regular news conference, adding that the Chinese side's response was "legitimate and lawful".