Philippines says ties with China remain strong despite defence chief’s word war

Palace press officer Claire Castro told reporters that Manila’s relationship with China remains "good" and that there is no rift despite the escalating exchange of statements between Defence Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. and officials of the Chinese embassy. Teodoro has publicly criticised Chinese activities in the West Philippine Sea and was subsequently barred, together with his family, from entering mainland China, Hong Kong and Macau – an unprecedented sanction against a Philippine cabinet member.

Castro emphasized that the Philippines will protect its maritime rights through diplomatic means, citing the 2016 Permanent Court of Arbitration ruling that upheld Manila’s exclusive economic zone and rejected China’s historic claims. While China continues to reject the award, the Philippine government maintains that the decision is final, binding, and part of international law.