Philippines rebukes officials over public comments about China

Manila's foreign ministry has publicly criticized government officials for making disparaging remarks about China, asserting the importance of a unified diplomatic stance as the nation prepares for a significant regional summit. The armed forces of the Philippines have been embroiled in ongoing disputes with Beijing regarding the South China Sea, a contentious waterway that China asserts sovereignty over, despite an international ruling to the contrary.

Several senators had called for Beijing's ambassador to be stripped of official standing last month following comments suggesting China could "easily win" any conflict with the Philippines. In retaliation, China accused Manila of creating "multiple obstacles" to its participation in an Asean defense ministers meeting, sending only an embassy defense attache instead.

The foreign ministry's statement emphasized that public comments undermining the government's diplomatic approach can damage the country's credibility and reputation internationally, projecting an image of internal division that external parties may exploit. The ministry specifically addressed the country's national security agencies, which have engaged in heated exchanges with the Chinese embassy on social media.

While the armed forces are crucial in documenting incidents, civilian authority directs the Philippines' international relations, the statement noted. The 2016 international court verdict broadly dismissing China's claims to the South China Sea was reached through rigorous legal proceedings under international law, not through public messaging or social media.

In response to the ministry's criticism, China's top diplomat, Wang Yi, urged Manila in a phone call to rein in politicians who had "smeared" Beijing and transgressed its red lines. Philippine Foreign Secretary Theresa May Lazaro described the conversation as "frank and constructive," emphasizing the need for continued diplomatic dialogue and the proper management of differences based on mutual respect.

Manila is scheduled to host an Asean summit next week, with participation from U.S. President Donald Trump and recently re-elected Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. China has not yet announced publicly who it will send.