Philippines Vows Defiance After China Sanctions Defense Chief
Manila-Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro said on Friday he would continue carrying out his duties after China imposed sanctions on him, as tensions between Manila and Beijing continue over disputed waters in the South China Sea.
Teodoro said the sanctions were aimed at those who speak out against what he described as China’s actions in the region.
“That is truly what they do to those who speak the truth against their deception,” Teodoro said in a statement.
“I will just keep doing my duty and uphold our nation in the face of the wickedness they are committing here and even in our seas,” he added.
China announced sanctions on Thursday against Teodoro and his close relatives, accusing him of repeatedly making remarks that harmed China’s interests and bilateral relations.
Relations between China and the Philippines have deteriorated in recent years, with frequent disputes as Manila has challenged Beijing’s activities in the South China Sea.
China has accused the Philippines of repeated encroachment in waters claimed by Beijing, while Manila has raised concerns over what it calls aggressive Chinese actions.
Philippine Foreign Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro said the government would seek discussions with Chinese authorities over the sanctions, adding that Manila preferred diplomacy and dialogue.
The Department of Foreign Affairs described the sanctions as an “unfriendly act” that further complicated bilateral relations.
The department said such measures would not help build trust, manage differences or create conditions for constructive engagement between the two countries.
Beijing has previously imposed similar sanctions on foreign officials, including US Secretary of State Marco Rubio over criticism of China and European Union lawmakers who accused Beijing of human rights abuses in Xinjiang.
China last week criticised Teodoro after he described Beijing as a threat during remarks linked to regional security concerns. Manila also recently took diplomatic action against China over what it called the illegal presence of a floating structure in a disputed area.
