THE DFA announced on Tuesday that it summoned China’s ambassador to protest sanctions against former senator Tolentino, citing concern over punitive measures against a public official.
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) announced the action on Tuesday, July 8, expressing deep concern over Beijing’s “punitive measures” against a public official for carrying out his duties.
DFA Secretary Theresa Lazaro stated that while China has the legal right to impose sanctions, such actions against democratically elected officials for their official acts are inconsistent with the norms of mutual respect and dialogue between sovereign states. The DFA emphasized that the Philippines views these actions as undermining the foundation of equal and respectful relations between the two countries.
China announced the sanctions against Tolentino on July 1, a day after his term as senator concluded, citing his “egregious conduct on China-related issues.”
The sanctions prohibit Tolentino from entering mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau. Beijing’s foreign ministry statement accused Tolentino and other unnamed “anti-China politicians” of engaging in actions detrimental to China’s interests and bilateral relations.
The Philippines’ summoning of the Chinese ambassador underscores the seriousness with which it views these sanctions and highlights the potential strain on diplomatic ties between the two nations. The incident underscores the complexities of the relationship between the Philippines and China, particularly regarding issues of sovereignty and territorial disputes.
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