‘Misleading’: PH rejects China travel advisory

Metro Manila, Philippines - The Philippine government has rejected China’s travel advisory warning of rising security risks in the country, saying the notice misrepresents the situation.

“The relevant travel advisories issued by China mischaracterize the situation in the Philippines,” the Department of Foreign Affairs said in a statement on Sunday, Aug. 31.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry, along with its embassy and consulates in the Philippines, on Saturday warned citizens to be cautious about traveling to the country, citing what it called a deterioration in security and a rise in crimes against Chinese nationals.

The advisory urged travelers to strengthen safety measures, avoid high-risk areas. and report incidents to local police or Chinese missions.

China’s Ministry of Education also issued a separate alert to students planning to study in the Philippines, pointing to “a recent surge in malicious incidents targeting Chinese citizens” and warning of “unfavorable conditions for international students.”

The DFA said crimes, including those involving Chinese nationals targeting their compatriots, are being “vigorously addressed” by Philippine authorities. It added that the government continues to engage with stakeholders on the issue.

“The Philippines remains committed to constructively addressing matters of mutual concern with China,” the DFA said, noting the recent 9th Philippines-China Joint Consular Consultation Meeting, where both sides discussed security concerns and agreed to deepen law enforcement cooperation.