Manila, Jan. 15 -- The Philippine government has pushed back against China's accusations of alleged "provocations" in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), saying Beijing's resort to personal attacks against Filipino officials and advocates exposes the weakness of its legal position.

National Maritime Council (NMC) spokesperson Undersecretary Alexander Lopez said China's recent statements and social media engagements, particularly those singling out Philippine officials, reflect its inability to counter Manila's claims under international law.

"They're trying to discredit some personalities, eh sa atin iyon once you attack a personality ang ibig sabihin lang doon nawawalan kayo ng legal argument kaya tao na iyong binabanatan ninyo (Once you at...