Teodoro hits China's 'insincerity, duplicity' over arrests of its citizens in PH

Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. on Sunday criticized the Chinese Embassy in Manila over its recent statement expressing concern over the arrest of Chinese nationals in the Philippines, accusing Beijing of supposed "insincerity and duplicity" in its dealings with the country.

In a statement, Teodoro said the Chinese embassy’s pronouncement reflected the “true intentions” of the Chinese Communist Party in dealing with the Philippines.

“The Chinese Embassy statement replying to our Department of Foreign Affairs is a window into the true intentions of the Chinese Communist Party in dealing with our country,” Teodoro said.

Teodoro was responding to an earlier statement from the Chinese Embassy, which said it was “seriously concerned” over what it described as the “frequent apprehensions” of Chinese citizens by Philippine military and law enforcement authorities.

The exchange comes amid heightened tensions between Manila and Beijing, alongside increased scrutiny by Philippine authorities over the activities of some Chinese nationals in the country, including those allegedly linked to espionage and illegal offshore gaming operations.

The embassy called on Philippine authorities to notify Chinese diplomatic missions within four days of any detention or arrest involving Chinese nationals, citing the bilateral consular agreement between the two countries.

It also urged the Philippine government to handle the cases fairly, release individuals if found not to have violated Philippine laws, and avoid what it described as “selective and discriminatory law enforcement” targeting Chinese nationals.

The embassy said Beijing “fully respects” Philippine judicial sovereignty, but warned against what it described as the abuse of law enforcement powers and political manipulation that could affect bilateral ties.

Teodoro, however, said the embassy’s response showed “insincerity and duplicity” on the part of Chinese officials.

“We condemn the arrogant display of deceitful indignation by them,” he said.

Teodoro also dismissed the embassy’s assertions as lacking credibility.

“Hindi kapanipaniwala ang mga sinasabi kaya idinadaan sa alboroto (What they are saying is not believable, so they resort to making a fuss),” he said.

The defense chief asserted the Philippines’ resolve to defend its sovereign rights.

“Hindi tayo pasisiil (We will not be bullied),” Teodoro said.—MCG, GMA News