China denies Panelo's statement on 'tit-for-tat' approach

The Chinese embassy on Thursday denied that Beijing will retaliate if the Philippine government would enforce the deportation of thousands of illegal workers from China.

Presidential spokesperson Salvador Panelo earlier said Chinese Ambassador Zhao Jianhua had told him that China would also deport undocumented Filipino workers if it takes similar action against Chinese nationals in the country.

"The Chinese embassy in the Philippines did not say that Beijing would adopt a 'tit-for-tat' approach should the Philippine government deport Chinese nationals found working illegally in the country," China's diplomatic mission said in a statement.

"China adheres to the principle of non-interference in other countries' internal affairs. Chinese law enforcement agencies will continue to properly handle relevant issues concerning foreign nationals working illegally in China in accordance with laws and regulations," it added.

Several lawmakers have expressed alarm at the influx of Chinese nationals who work for Chinese-owned offshore gaming companies that operate in the Philippines. Majority of them, they said, do not have legal work permits and have entered the country using tourist visas.

The embassy said China respects the laws and regulations of the Philippines regarding employment of foreign nationals and acknowledged that Chinese nationals "should not stay or work illegally in foreign countries including the Philippines."

"The Chinese government has always requested Chinese nationals in the Philippines to observe the Philippine laws and regulations," it said, adding that consular notices have been issued on this matter.

At the same time, it asked Philippine law enforcement agencies to deal with relevant issues "in accordance with the laws and regulations in a professional manner." —KBK, GMA News