Chinese Embassy Challenges Philippine Lawmakers Over Jing Persona Non Grata Call

 

The Chinese Embassy in Manila has challenged Philippine lawmakers to act on their calls to declare Ambassador Jing Quan persona non grata, escalating tensions following the diplomat’s controversial remarks about China’s military advantage over the Philippines.

In a Facebook post, the embassy dismissed the lawmakers’ statements as political posturing and urged them to proceed with the proposed diplomatic action rather than issue threats. It also accused several Philippine politicians of exploiting anti-China sentiment for political gain and criticized local media for allegedly distorting statements and exaggerating developments.

The embassy maintained that Ambassador Jing remained open to direct communication with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., saying a face-to-face meeting could address sensitive issues and prevent individuals from further damaging bilateral relations.

Senators Demand Jing’s Removal

Senators JV Ejercito and Francis Pangilinan have called for Jing’s removal from the Philippines, describing his conduct as arrogant and inappropriate for a diplomat.

Ejercito said he supported Marcos’ plan to summon the ambassador, emphasizing that diplomatic channels should be exhausted before more serious measures are considered. However, he argued that Jing’s continued presence could undermine efforts to improve relations between Manila and Beijing.

Ejercito also called on China to appoint a replacement, saying a change in diplomatic leadership would be more consistent with any genuine effort to repair bilateral ties.

He rejected accusations of Sinophobia, distinguishing his criticism of the Chinese government’s policies from his respect for the Filipino-Chinese community. His objections, he explained, were directed at the expansionist approach associated with Chinese President Xi Jinping, which he believes could explain the ambassador’s confrontational language.

Pangilinan similarly urged Jing to return to China, criticizing what he described as an arrogant and condescending attitude toward the Philippines.

The senators’ statements reflect growing frustration among some Philippine officials over Beijing’s approach to disputes involving Philippine sovereignty and maritime rights.

Marcos Favors Dialogue While Defending Sovereignty

Malacañang has maintained that the Philippines should preserve diplomatic communication with China without compromising its territorial integrity or national interests in the West Philippine Sea.

Palace press officer Claire Castro said the administration considers economic cooperation and maritime security separate but equally important aspects of the relationship. Trade ties, she explained, should not prevent the government from responding firmly to actions or statements that challenge Philippine interests.

Marcos’ planned meeting with Jing is consistent with the administration’s position that dialogue remains necessary even when disagreements intensify. The government has not indicated that the diplomatic dispute should automatically lead to a downgrade in relations.

The approach reflects a balancing act: maintaining channels for negotiation while making clear that economic ties cannot override the country’s sovereign rights.

Marcos Calls Ambassador’s Remarks a Threat

The controversy intensified after Jing said on Thursday that China could easily defeat the Philippines if Beijing chose to resolve its disputes through force.

The ambassador also described China as a peaceful neighbor, arguing that Beijing would not choose military action despite its claimed advantage. His remarks drew immediate criticism from Philippine officials, with the Department of Foreign Affairs characterizing the statement as a thinly veiled threat.

Marcos subsequently said the comments sounded very much like a threat and were inconsistent with the standards expected of diplomatic representatives.

The President’s decision to summon Jing signals Manila’s concern over the language used by the Chinese envoy while leaving room for an official explanation and further discussion.

Beijing Also Targets Philippine Defense Chief

The dispute has extended beyond the ambassador’s remarks, with China’s Ministry of National Defense criticizing Philippine Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro Jr.

Chinese defense ministry spokesman Chen Xi accused Teodoro of adopting an anti-China position to advance his political influence, strengthen the Philippine military and attract foreign support amid South China Sea tensions.

Chen further claimed that the Philippine defense chief’s actions threatened national security, harmed regional stability and damaged China-Philippines defense relations.

Beijing, however, reiterated its position that it would defend its territorial sovereignty and maritime interests while promoting peace and cooperation in the South China Sea.

The exchange highlights the widening divide between the two governments over maritime security and the appropriate conduct of officials. With Philippine lawmakers demanding accountability and Beijing defending its envoy, the planned meeting between Marcos and Jing could become a significant test of whether diplomatic engagement can ease tensions without weakening Manila’s position on sovereignty.