The National Security Council on Tuesday said that China's vast claims in the entire South China Sea, including in areas that overlap the West Philippine Sea, is the main reason why there's growing tension in the area.

NSC spokesperson Jonathan Malaya refuted China's allegation that it is the Philippines provoking tensions in the SCS.

"China is the only country that believes its own narrative and propaganda. Not a single nation has expressed support for its 10-dash line, where it lays claim to practically the entire South China," Malaya said.

"The root of all these tensions is its non-adherence to international law, UNCLOS (United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea), and the 2016 Arbitral Award. As the world has seen, it is not the Philippines that has been engaged in provocations, bullying, and aggressive actions in the West Philippine Sea," he stressed.

Malaya maintained the Philippines has been "very restrained and responsible" in dealing with China's aggressive actions in the WPS.

The same cannot be said of China, said Malaya. However, he added that the Philippine government welcomes China's offer to enter into "dialogue, negotiation, and consultation."

"But for it to prosper, China must immediately stop its bullying, aggressive actions, and illegal moves in the West Philippine Sea, which seriously undermine regional peace and security," Malaya pointed out. 

The NSC official cited China's "illegal exercise" of maritime law enforcement powers, interference with Philippine vessels, harassment and intimidation of Filipino fisherfolk, and other activities.