Metro Manila, Philippines – China accused Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. of shutting down military-to-military communication with Beijing, warning that the move could increase the risk of confrontation between the two countries.

In a statement, China said Teodoro had closed communication channels for personal political interests, arguing that direct military contact was necessary to prevent misunderstandings and manage tensions.

“But Gibo Teodoro decided to shut down mil-mil communication between China and the Philippines for political self interests,” the statement said.

“His move fuels mistrust, narrows the space for crisis management, and pushes frontline personnel closer to confrontation,” it added.

Beijing argued that communication should remain open even during periods of strained diplomatic relations to prevent incidents from escalating into a wider conflict.

The accusation came four months after China’s Foreign Ministry announced sanctions against Teodoro, his wife and child on June 11, prohibiting them from entering mainland China, Hong Kong and Macao.

Beijing also barred Chinese persons and organizations from conducting transactions or engaging in cooperation with the defense chief and his family.

China accused Teodoro at the time of making remarks that undermined its interests and damaged relations with the Philippines.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) condemned the sanctions as an unfriendly act that could further complicate bilateral relations.

The DFA, however, said that the latest cutting of communication should be clarified by Beijing.

In July, Teodoro said the Philippines would maintain only limited military communication with China, ruling out broader engagement unless Beijing changed its conduct in disputed waters.

The Department of National Defense has yet to respond to the latest accusation.