The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has raised concern over what it described as a “coercive” statement from the Chinese embassy linking job losses among Filipinos to strained relations between Manila and Beijing.
In a statement, the DFA emphasized that cooperation with other countries brings tangible benefits to Filipinos across economic and cultural areas. However, it objected to the manner in which the embassy framed its message.
“However, we take strong exception to the (Chinese) embassy’s tone, which appears to imply that such cooperation could be withheld as a form of leverage or retaliation. In the current atmosphere, this framing risks being perceived as coercive and undermines constructive bilateral dialogue,” the DFA said.
“The DFA once again urges the Chinese embassy to adopt a responsible and measured tone in public exchanges,” it added.
The foreign affairs department also stressed that it “remains committed to diplomacy to stabilize and advance our bilateral relationship, notwithstanding profound differences.”
The exchange followed remarks from Chinese embassy spokesman Ji Lingpeng, who earlier warned that escalating political rhetoric against Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan could put at risk millions of Filipino jobs. The warning came as tensions resurfaced over calls to replace China’s envoy to Manila.
Ji reiterated Beijing’s position in a subsequent statement, saying China remains willing to address differences through diplomatic channels while also issuing another caution directed at the DFA.
“We urge the DFA to play a responsible role in restraining certain individuals in the Philippines from making such remarks, in order to prevent any undermining or harm to ongoing diplomatic efforts,” he said, referring to statements by Philippine officials regarding issues in the West Philippine Sea and assertions of Philippine sovereignty.
On the other hand, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., in his Chinese New Year message, described the Year of the Fire Horse as a year of “purposeful action” toward national growth and prosperity.
“I invite all Filipinos to move with purposeful haste – swift when necessary; measured when it matters most. Momentum can be energizing, but direction is what truly delivers results,” Marcos said.
“It is a time when households, communities and businesses set priorities, execute plans and focus on what truly sustains them. Across generations, we have come to see prosperity as something we cultivate: built by everyday work, guided by discipline and multiplied when it creates jobs and supports initiatives that hold our people together,” the President added.
The Chief Executive noted that while the horse symbolizes movement and courage and the fire element represents energy, national progress requires sustained effort.
“These symbols convey great meaning for many among us, but the nation does not advance on symbolism alone. It progresses when Filipinos show up for work, when households make every peso count with prudence and good judgment and when government and industries keep the country growing through consistent service, sound decisions and the rigor that turns daily effort into long-term growth,” he said.