Published 1 hour ago • loading... • Updated 1 hour ago
Philippines summons China's envoy over remarks conveying 'threat'
The foreign affairs department said Jing Quan’s remarks were unacceptable and urged disputes be handled through diplomatic channels.
On Monday, October 19, Secretary Maria Theresa Lazaro summoned Ambassador Jing Quan to formally protest remarks suggesting China could "easily win" a military confrontation with the Philippines.
Jing made the remarks on October 15 after Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. labeled China a regional "troublemaker," stating Manila should be "fortunate" that China avoids force.
Secretary Lazaro conveyed the Philippines' "serious concern and strong objection," describing the remarks as "provocative and unacceptable" because they aggravated bilateral ties and undermined cooperation efforts.
While the Chinese Embassy claimed the remarks were selectively quoted, the Department of Foreign Affairs stated the Philippines will not accept attempts by a foreign envoy to intimidate officials.
Despite the protest, the DFA affirmed it will keep open communication lines with Beijing to stabilize relations while firmly upholding the country's positions on key maritime issues.