The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has strongly opposed the statement of the Chinese Embassy in Manila that allegedly warns of trade retaliation and the possible loss of “millions of jobs” if tensions between the two countries worsen. According to the DFA, the embassy's tone is worrisome, as it seems to indicate that economic cooperation could be used as a means of pressure or retaliation.
In an official statement issued on Monday, the DFA insisted that it is inappropriate to present economic cooperation as leverage against the Philippines. The agency stressed that such framing could be considered coercive and undermine a sound and constructive bilateral dialogue. The government maintained that it will continue to advance diplomacy to maintain the stability of the relationship, despite the "deep differences."
The embassy's statement was in response to calls by several senators to expel the Chinese envoy from the country, following a series of incidents in the West Philippine Sea. In response, the embassy spokesperson warned that any serious damage to diplomatic relations, including a possible downgrading of ties, could result in widespread job losses. The DFA called such statements unhelpful to improving relations and urged a responsible and cautious tone in public statements.