Senator warns Chinese envoy could face severe punishment for defying Beijing

In a social-media post, Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan warned that Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan could be subjected to severe punishment, including a firing squad, for challenging Beijing’s directives on the Philippines. Pangilinan’s remarks followed Jing’s statement that China could “easily win” if it resorted to force, while also urging the Philippines to cherish peace. The senator highlighted that high-ranking military leaders in China have faced dismissal, detention, disappearance or execution, implying a diplomat would be a lesser target.

Since the ambassador’s comments, several Philippine officials and civil-society groups have called for him to be declared persona non grata. The Chinese embassy countered by labeling the criticism as hostile pressure from “anti-China politicians.”