Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. on Thursday urged China to substantiate its allegation that Filipino troops are dumping waste in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), saying Beijing should present evidence if it stands by its claims.
Speaking to reporters at the Libingan ng mga Bayani in Taguig City, Teodoro questioned the credibility of the accusation and pointed to what he described as a pattern of unproven claims from China.
“Do you believe them?” Teodoro said. “If they have an accusation, they should prove it.”
His remarks came after China Central Television (CCTV), a state-run outlet, aired a video showing a Philippine vessel grounded at Ayungin Shoal allegedly “burning and dumping garbage” into the sea. The footage was released more than a week after Philippine officials accused China of spreading cyanide in the area, which they said had damaged marine life.
Teodoro said China has repeatedly made similar allegations without presenting supporting evidence when challenged through proper channels.
“They are good at that. But when it’s time to prove it before fair proceedings, they don’t do it,” he said.
The military has also raised concerns that alleged cyanide contamination may have been used to endanger Filipino personnel aboard the BRP Sierra Madre, a grounded naval vessel serving as a military outpost at Ayungin Shoal since 1999.
On broader bilateral relations, Teodoro said any improvement would depend on Beijing’s actions and intent.
“It depends on their good faith,” he said.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. earlier said a reset in Philippine-China relations remains possible amid shifting geopolitical conditions. Teodoro said the defense sector would remain firm regardless of diplomatic developments.
“Of course the President is always willing to reset ties. But as far as our defense resilience is concerned, we will pursue,” he said, adding that countries acting in good faith would not oppose the Philippines strengthening its defense posture.
He said concerns over Philippine defense engagements could indicate “bad intention” on the part of other states.
Teodoro also reiterated the Philippines’ position on China’s actions in the West Philippine Sea, accusing Beijing of denying Manila’s rights in the disputed waters and maintaining what he described as an illegal occupation of features such as Mischief Reef, while continuing “base-building” activities in the region.