Metro Manila, Philippines – Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. on Saturday, June 13, said he was undeterred by sanctions of the Communist Party of China against merely speaking the truth about issues involving the West Philippine Sea and alleged illegal activities linked to Chinese nationals in the country.
In a statement, Teodoro confirmed that both he and his family were subjected to sanctions by Chinese authorities over what Beijing described as “erroneous statements.”
“Ako ay naglahad lamang ng katotohanan tungkol sa West Philippine Sea at tungkol sa mga illegal na gawain nila dito sa Pilipinas,” said Teodoro.
[Translation: I only spoke the truth regarding the West Philippine Sea and about their illegal activities here in the Philippines.]
The defense chief said he will continue carrying out his duties and support government efforts against unlawful operations allegedly involving Chinese interests in the Philippines.
Teodoro specifically cited the shutdown of alleged scam hubs in Bamban, Tarlac, and the closure of Sanjia Steel Corporation, which authorities accused of manufacturing substandard steel products.
Teodoro said senior officials of the Chinese embassy allegedly intervened in an attempt to conceal irregularities linked to Sanjia.
He said government actions are not directed against Chinese nationals but against activities that undermine Philippine interests.
“Hindi ito targetting ng Chinese nationals kundi pagsugpo ng kabalbalan na nagpapahina ng ating bansa,” said Teodoro.
[Translation: This is not targeting Chinese nationals but rather putting an end to wrongdoing that weakens our country.]
The defense secretary also reiterated his support for the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), saying many countries share the Philippine position on maritime issues.
“Gusto ko din naman na maganda sana ang defense relations natin sa China pero hindi maari dahil sinusubukan nilang sakupin ang nasa loob ng illegal na 9 dash line. Katrayduran kung sumangayon tayo dito,” he added.
[Translation: I also want our defense relations with China to be good, but that is not possible because they are trying to claim areas within the illegal nine-dash line. It would treacherous if we agreed to it.]
Despite the sanctions, Teodoro vowed to continue pursuing the country’s national defense agenda and deepening ties with allied nations.
