Philippine Defense Secretary Teodoro vows to resist Chinese sanctions over South China Sea remarks

China imposed sanctions on Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro and his close relatives, accusing him of repeatedly making “erroneous remarks” that undermine China’s legitimate interests in the disputed South China Sea. In response, Teodoro said he will “keep doing my duty and uphold our nation in the face of the wickedness they are committing here and even in our seas.”

The Philippine foreign ministry labeled the sanctions an “unfriendly act” that complicates bilateral relations and affirmed Manila’s preference for diplomacy and dialogue. The statement added that the Philippines does not believe in sanctions and will seek discussions with Chinese authorities. The tension follows recent accusations by Beijing of Philippine encroachment in its waters and a diplomatic protest by Manila over an “illegal presence” of a floating structure on a disputed atoll.

Both sides warned that the dispute could further strain ties between the U.S. ally Philippines and China, which have been souring over multiple incidents in the strategically vital South China Sea.