(Photo courtesy of Senate)
MANILA, Philippines – Senator Robin Padilla defended China amid concerns over its diplomatic statements toward the Philippines, saying Chinese officials have never issued threats and should instead be approached through dialogue.
In a statement featured on Thursday, October 22, Padilla maintained that communication and diplomacy should prevail in addressing disagreements between the Philippines and China.
“Never silang nagbanta. Wala, walang gano’n, ano… Dapat lahat ng gustong kumausap sa kaniya, lalo na ‘yung mga opisyal nating mainit ang ulo, makipag-usap kayo. Ambassador ‘yun. Diplomatic ‘yung tao na ‘yon,” Padilla said.
The senator urged Philippine officials to engage directly with China’s diplomatic representatives rather than allow tensions to escalate through public exchanges.
His remarks came amid renewed attention to the language used by Chinese diplomatic officials in discussing issues involving the Philippines.
Padilla’s statement reflects his position that diplomatic engagement remains an important avenue for resolving disagreements between the two countries.
However, his assertion that China has never issued threats represents his own assessment and does not settle the broader dispute over China’s statements and actions.
The Philippines and China continue to face diplomatic challenges, particularly over competing maritime claims in the West Philippine Sea.
