Manila, Jan. 21 -- The Philippines and China have reached a "preliminary consensus" for the creation of a roadmap that would help manage tensions in the South China Sea, Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan disclosed Tuesday night.

Speaking at a new year reception for the media in Makati City, the envoy said talks have been ongoing between the two foreign ministries as maritime disputes become "more pronounced" in recent years.

"Any conflict would inevitably harm the long-term relationship between our two neighboring countries. So, the best option is to sit down for talks and solutions in a diplomatic way," he said.

"At present, our diplomats from the two sides are working toward this goal, and have already reached some consensus on a roadmap ...