Filipino Officials Call for Immediate Expulsion of Chinese Diplomats Involved in Wire-Tapping
China’s actions, as stated by a Filipino official, are in breach of Philippine laws and diplomatic protocols and conventions.
Accusations have been made by Filipino officials against diplomats at the Chinese Embassy for spreading disinformation and secretly recording conversations about the South China Sea. They are calling for the immediate expulsion of those responsible from the Philippines. National Security Adviser Secretary Eduardo M. Año, along with Philippine Coast Guard spokesperson Commodore Jay Tarriela, have demanded appropriate actions against the individuals in the Chinese Embassy involved in leaking transcripts or recordings of conversations between Filipino officials, citing violations of diplomatic protocols and conventions.
These recordings suggest discussions surrounding a “gentleman’s agreement” on the Philippines’ supply missions to Ayungin Shoal, a contentious area in the South China Sea. Chinese Coast Guard vessels have been obstructing Filipino vessels from accessing the shoal, resulting in injuries to Filipino officers.
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Filipino Officials Respond
Secretary of National Defense Gilberto Teodoro has refuted the claims made in the recordings as misinformation. He stated that any implication of the Department of National Defense being part of any agreement is a deceptive move by the Chinese Embassy in Manila, particularly following the recent condemnation of China’s actions in a meeting.
He urged caution against China’s manipulative methods and interference, targeting their own interests, calling for unity among citizens, the media, and the international community.
Unlike the president of the Philippines, no other government official has the authority to engage in such agreements with foreign powers, according to Mr. Año. He highlighted the objective of the Chinese Embassy in releasing these falsehoods to incite discord among the Filipino people.
The Philippines’ foreign ministry reiterated their firm stance that no agreement has been made surrendering the country’s sovereign rights in the Ayungin Shoal. They also welcomed a Bilateral Consultation Mechanism on the South China Sea as an opportunity to address differences promptly.
Efforts to garner public support continue amid escalating tensions following China’s aggressive territorial claims in the South China Sea. Neighboring countries have rejected China’s claims, which conflict with established international laws.
Mr. Marcos Jr. has reaffirmed the Philippines’ sovereignty in the region and criticized China’s persistent presence in the waters.
China’s expansive claims over the South China Sea, which intersect with territories claimed by several other countries, have been a source of conflict. An international tribunal previously ruled against China’s claim, prompting ongoing assertive actions by China in maritime activities.
Chinese Reclamation Efforts Observed on Shoals
Tarriela noted the presence of the Chinese Maritime Militia near Escoda Shoal within the Philippines’ EEZ, close to Palawan. The Philippine Coast Guard has been monitoring activities in the area in response to reported coral dumping by Chinese vessels, resembling previous island-building attempts.
U.S. soldiers are seen during a joint mock beachfront assault on the shore of Ulugan Bay on Palawan island on April 25, 2012. U.S. and Filipino soldiers stormed the South China Sea island in war games that took place not far from a real-life maritime standoff between Manila and Beijing. (Ted Aljibe/AFP/Getty Images)
The PCG reported coral debris near Escoda Shoal and changes in its elevation, suggested to be part of ongoing Chinese reclamation activities in the area.
Reuters contributed to this report.
