Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. criticized China’s recent decision to bar him and his family from entering its territory, calling the move a reaction to those who speak the truth against Beijing’s actions.
The Chinese foreign ministry announced the sanctions on Thursday, accusing Teodoro of making “irresponsible remarks” that allegedly undermined China’s interests and the bilateral relationship with the Philippines.
The sanctions bar Teodoro, his spouse, and his child from entering the Chinese mainland, Hong Kong, and Macao, and prevent Chinese individuals and organizations from engaging in any transactions or cooperation with them.
In response, Teodoro acknowledged China’s right to impose the sanctions but emphasized that the country’s own citizens and others under its control “suffer far worse.” He said he will continue fulfilling his duties and defending Philippine interests, particularly amid challenges in the West Philippine Sea. “I will just keep doing my duty and uphold our nation in the face of the wickedness they are committing here and even in our seas,” Teodoro said.
Teodoro recently warned of the “severe threat” China poses to the Philippines, stating that national policy focuses on building resilience, including upgrades to military infrastructure. He dismissed Chinese aid, such as fertilizer and fuel assistance, as insufficient, calling it “sugarcoat” and “guileful,” despite claims from Beijing that it has provided support through disaster relief, vaccines, and infrastructure projects.
Chinese embassy in Manila spokesperson Ji Lingpeng criticized Teodoro’s statements, saying they demonstrated ingratitude and personal political motives, and likened his comments to the fable of “The Farmer and the Snake.” Ji asserted that Teodoro’s remarks harm mutual trust and China-Philippines relations.
Teodoro, however, maintained that his stance is guided by duty to the nation rather than gratitude or political expediency, reinforcing his commitment to uphold Philippine sovereignty and the welfare of its people.