(Photo courtesy of PCO)
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Friday expressed concern over remarks made by Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Jing Quan suggesting that China could easily prevail if it resorted to force, describing the statement as threatening and inappropriate for diplomatic relations.
Speaking to reporters during the Philippine Coast Guard’s (PCG) 125th founding anniversary celebration at the Eva Macapagal Super Terminal in Manila, Marcos said the ambassador’s remarks warranted clarification through direct dialogue.
“Well, it sounds very much to me like a threat, and it is not a very diplomatic statement to be made. So, we perhaps would like to understand what exactly it is that he means,” Marcos said.
Asked whether the Chinese ambassador would be summoned to explain his statement, the President indicated that the issue should be addressed through discussions.
Marcos emphasized the need to clarify the diplomat’s intentions amid continuing maritime tensions between Manila and Beijing.
The President has repeatedly maintained that the Philippines will defend its sovereignty and sovereign rights while pursuing peaceful and diplomatic solutions to disputes.
His administration continues to advocate dialogue and adherence to international law in addressing maritime disagreements, particularly in the West Philippine Sea.
