Philippines defence chief labels Chinese envoy's warning as intimidation
Defence Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. said the Chinese ambassador's comment about using force was a deliberate threat to the Philippines, echoing the DFA's view.
Gilberto Teodoro Jr. supported the Department of Foreign Affairs' interpretation that Ambassador Jing Quan's remarks on possible force constitute intimidation rather than a diplomatic slip. The statement came amid heightened scrutiny of China-Philippines relations. In a separate development, Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla identified 11 persons of interest, including a former Bangsamoro Transition Authority parliament member, linked to a 521-kilogram shabu shipment seized in Laos bound for the Philippines. Additionally, police in Baligod arrested 14 youths dubbed "maleta boys" over a separate case.
Why it matters
The statements signal rising diplomatic strain with China while domestic agencies tackle major drug trafficking and local crime.
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