Metro Manila, Philippines – China denied interfering in internal affairs after Defense Secretary Gilberto “Gibo” Teodoro Jr. described the Chinese embassy website as a “propaganda institution” during congressional budget deliberations.
Embassy spokesperson Ji Lingpeng issued the statement Wednesday, Aug. 26, saying Beijing has never meddled in domestic affairs and has no intention of doing so.
“China has always adhered to the principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries. China is not interested in interfering in the Philippines’ internal affairs, has never done so and will never do so,” Ji said.
The embassy also said maritime disputes should not define the overall bilateral relationship.
“The South China Sea issue is not the entirety of China-Philippines relations, and maritime disputes should not define our bilateral relations,” Ji said.
Ji said China remains committed to managing differences through dialogue and consultation, but noted that “a small group of people in the Philippines” is trying to provoke confrontation between Manila and Beijing.
“Their efforts run against the common aspirations of the Chinese and Filipino people. They are doomed to failure,” the spokesperson said.
Teodoro’s criticism
Teodoro made the remarks Tuesday during deliberations on the Department of National Defense 2027 budget.
“The Chinese embassy website itself is not a diplomatic website anymore, but it is already a propaganda institution,” Teodoro told lawmakers.
The embassy had criticized authorities over a government raid on Sanjia Steel in Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental, where several Chinese nationals were detained over alleged violations related to their employment and business activities.
Embassy vows to push back
The embassy said it would continue responding to accusations and defending Beijing’s position on issues involving the Philippines.
“The Chinese Embassy will continue to firmly safeguard China’s national interests and dignity, resolutely push back groundless accusations, defamation and smears against China, and help more Filipinos understand the facts and China’s position,” Ji said.
