Philippines Calls China's Sanctions on Defence Minister an 'Unfriendly Act' Complicating Bilateral Ties

The Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has stated that Beijing’s sanctions against Defence Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. and his family are considered an ‘unfriendly act that further complicates’ relations between the Philippines and China.

‘While the imposition of sanctions is a sovereign prerogative of China, the Philippines views it as an unfriendly act that further complicates bilateral relations,’ DFA spokesperson Analyn Ratonel said in a statement on Thursday (11/6).

‘These measures do not contribute to building mutual trust, responsibly managing differences, or creating the conditions necessary for constructive engagement between our two countries,’ she added.

On Thursday, China barred Teodoro and his family from entering mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau, and prohibited Chinese organisations and individuals from conducting business with them. The Chinese Foreign Ministry announced the sanctions after accusing Teodoro of making irresponsible statements that ‘undermine China’s legitimate interests and sabotage China-Philippines relations.’ The statement did not specify which remarks prompted the action.

Teodoro, like many other Philippine government officials, has been vocal in asserting the Philippines’ rights and interests in the West Philippine Sea.