National Security Adviser (NSA) Eduardo Año on Tuesday said security challenges in the South China Sea are unlikely to be reduced anytime soon.

"The Philippines recognizes the challenges in the South China Sea are unlikely to diminish anytime soon. The situation becomes even more complex due to potential flashpoints in the area which continue to evolve amid rising geopolitical and geoeconomic tensions and shifting global security dynamics," Año said in his speech at the Stratbase Institute and Stanford University's Sealight Project online forum titled "Scarborough Shoal: Facing Facts and Exploring Options."

The NSA attributed the tensions to China's baseless, excessive and expansive territorial claims, militarization, and confrontations with its neighbors -- things that simply cannot be disregarded.

Año also emphasized that while these complexities are not easy to navigate, the Philippines committed to the fundamental tenet of sovereign equality of states and amity with all nations.

These objectives, Año stressed, have always remained even when the country's lawful interests and rights are being endangered and compromised.

"By putting forward our vision of greater peace, stability and prosperity, not just in the region but around the globe, we have created a clear and resonating message that preserving our territorial integrity is foundational for the Philippines and is of (course, non-negotiable) which is why our call for respect for legitimate interests and legally settle rights of all parties reverberates ever so loudly across the region and beyond as protecting the WPS (West Philippine Sea) impacts not just us but also the whole world since 60 percent of the world's commerce passes through the area," he added.

The NSA also added that securing the WPS is needed as it equates to the survival of the Philippines and its people.

Its preservation as Philippine territory is also instrumental for the country to attain prosperity and a sustainable future, he added.

Aside from this, Año said maintaining peace and harmony in the WPS will help promote national solidarity and enhanced respect for the country and its people. It will broaden the Philippines' sphere of influence and strengthen its position in the community of nations.

"China's continued presence in Scarborough Shoal since 2012 after a three-month standoff is a clear contrast to what we advance in our collective pursuit of a stable, just and rule-based maritime order," the NSA said.

Año likewise raised concern over Philippine territories being subjected by China to adverse claims and illegal occupation or control.