DFA: Law enforcement actions vs Chinese based on evidence, not nationality

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Thursday said Philippine law enforcement operations against Chinese nationals are conducted in accordance with laws and are “not directed against any nationality.”

In a statement, the DFA said its department took note of concerns raised by the Chinese Embassy in Manila over the recent apprehensions of Chinese nationals by Philippine authorities.

“The Department has coordinated with concerned agencies to ensure appropriate consular notification under the Philippines-China Consular Agreement,” the DFA said.

“The Philippines respects the rights of all foreign nationals under Philippine law. Law enforcement actions are based on specific acts and evidence, and are not directed against any nationality,” it added.

According to the DFA, its department will continue to coordinate with relevant Philippine agencies and the Chinese Embassy, as well as respect ongoing investigations and legal processes.

The statement came a day after the Chinese Embassy in Manila expressed “serious concern” over “recent frequent apprehensions” of Chinese citizens by Philippine military and law enforcement.

Chinese Embassy spokesperson Ji Lingpeng said Beijing had lodged “solemn representations” with the Philippine government following each incident.

Philippine authorities were urged to notify Chinese diplomatic missions within four days whenever Chinese nationals are detained, arrested, or deprived of freedom “whether the national requests it or not.”

This is based on the bilateral consular agreement between the two countries, the embassy said.

China also called on the Philippine side to handle the cases “in a fair and just manner in accordance with law,” and to ensure the personal safety and legitimate rights of the Chinese nationals involved.

“Should the investigation confirm that they have violated no Philippine laws, the relevant Chinese nationals shall be released as soon as possible, and no illegal or prolonged detention shall be allowed,” the embassy said.

While China “fully respects the Philippines’ judicial sovereignty,” the embassy said it opposed “selective and discriminatory law enforcement targeting Chinese nationals.”

The Chinese Embassy also warned against the “abuse of law enforcement powers and political manipulation.”

“The Embassy once again reminds Chinese citizens staying in the Philippines to abide by local laws and regulations, engage in lawful employment and business activities, stay away from acts inconsistent with the purpose of entry or visa category, and avoid overstaying,” it added. — Joviland Rita/RSJ, GMA News